Saturday, November 14, 2009

Helen Keller - Without Sight, She Gave Us Insight

Every time I think of Helen Keller, I'm amazed that someone so radically limited could have such a profound impact on the world. Before she was two years old, she lost her sight and hearing. She struggled against these infirmities all her life until she found ways to communicate. From the dozen books she wrote we receive her wisdom - she is one of the most quotable authors in history. My favorites...

On cooperation... 
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."

On character development...  
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved." 

On passion...     
“All that we love deeply ... becomes a part of us.”

On excellence... 
“One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.”

On optimism...   
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows.”


2 comments:

Meredith Bell said...

When those of us who can see and hear waste time thinking about what we're capable of, we need to remember what Helen Keller achieved. We can do so much more, and her wisdom quoted here inspire me to do more.

Ann said...

Wonderful! She is such an inspiration and overcame so much.