The Difficult and Miraculous Life of Helen Keller

The sixth president, John Quincy Adams stated, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader" (Inspire Quotes). An individual one should admire is someone that inspires people to do great works. A good leader is a person who has gone through challenging situations and has overcome them. Helen Adams Keller proved that the odds were not against her. She learned to read, write, and spell all while she was blind and deaf. As a young child, she was referred to as a "tiny tyrant" that should be put into an asylum (Garret 32). With the help of her teacher, Helen Keller would be transformed from a tyrant to a beautiful woman who many looked up to.

Helen Keller had a frightening start to her childhood. She was born on June 27, 1880 in Alabama on her family's farm. Her parents were Captain Author and Kate Keller. Keller had four siblings; two were half brothers from her father's first marriage and then two younger siblings. She was a bright and happy baby and began to walk early. Tragically, before the age of two she became ill (Stevenson par. 2). "Brain fever" had almost taken Keller’s life. It took several days for her fever to break and for her to recover. Everyone was grateful that their little girl had survived. But no one knew what was yet to come after the illness left Keller (Garret 10). This would be the first of many battles for Helen Keller.

After the brain fever had gone, Helen Keller’s condition was unknown. One day when her mother checked on her, the sun was shining directly in Keller’s eyes but she did not turn away. Kate quickly determined that Keller was blind. A few days later, the family was gathered for dinner. Normally Keller loved to eat as soon as the dinner ...

... middle of paper ...

...er’s life was not an easy one. She was admired by many for overcoming her disabilities and persevering through hardship. Keller was blinded at a young age. At the time, there were not as many resources as there are today. This did not deter Keller. She seized every opportunity and used them for her advancement. Individuals saw her as a “Miracle” for being able to have an education like any other child. Also, she inspired children and adults who were like her and gave them hope for the future. From Helen Keller I have learned that I should not quit what I love despite my situation. I can stand firm when others are tearing me down and saying I cannot do it. A person one can admire is a leader who has overcome a situation and is able to help others from their personal experience. Their victories give us hope and the courage to face each day with a sense of expectancy.