“The only thing worse than being blind is to have sight but no vision.”
Can you imagine a life beyond what you can see, hear and comprehend? Such was the existence of Helen Keller, a powerful example of the will to overcome.
Born in 1880 on an Alabama cotton plantation, she was left deaf and blind at 18 months from an illness known as “brain fever”. As a child she was often referred to as wild and unruly, trapped inside an existence that was far too small for her spirit. It wasn’t until Educator Ann Sullivan taught her to understand the world around her and express her personal views that her soul felt set free. For now she was not a prisoner of the darkness, but an explorer of the light.
She became insatiable in her quest for learning. After attending several schools for the deaf and blind, she was determined to go to college. Through tenacity and perseverance she did just that, graduating with honors from Radcliffe College at the age of 24.
Although she couldn’t hear the sound of her voice, she was determined that others would understand it. For 25 years she worked on her communication skills, and shortly after graduating from college she put them into action. She wrote her autobiography, The Story of My Life, and began speaking around the country to inspire others living with limitations. A tireless advocate for the rights of the disabled, she also tackled social and political issues such as women’s suffrage, pacifism, and birth control.
Helen Keller was not defined by her disabilities, but rather her determination to live fully in spite of them. That’s why we celebrate her as our first Women Who Dared: a tireless trailblazer and a passionate torchbearer – illuminating the path so that those with sight can also see the vision.
So tell us – Do you have a vision for your life, and will you dare to be you? We sure hope so!
Hugs and Blessings ❤
PS – Spread the inspiration by using the hashtag #Dare2BMe
Jeannine says
Another great message! Thank you for sharing vision is so important! Without, we will perish!
Katrina McGhee says
You’re welcome! Thanks for being such a wonderful supporter of the blog. Your encouragement keeps us going. 🙂