Who Said it Couldn't Be Done?

Whenever someone says, “I can’t do it,” there is always an example to show them they are wrong. There is, however, no better example to everyone who says things are impossible than Helen Keller. Helen Keller (1880-1968), as a child, was locked in the worst of all prisons, her own body. She was blind, deaf, and mute, unable to communicate with the world around her. The chances of her growing up to be an author, political activist, and lecturer were impossible. It could not be done, but she was a success-minded person who did not accept impossible.

The story of Helen Keller has fascinated thousands, and yet I feel that many have missed the truth of her story. Rather than see Helen as someone who overcame impossible odds, see her as an example that nothing is impossible to the success-minded person. Life offers many challenges. Oh, how sad when a person facing challenges just surrenders and gives up. 

“It is for us to pray not for tasks equal to our powers, but for powers equal to our tasks, to go forward with a great desire forever beating at the door of our hearts as we travel towards our distant goal.” Helen Keller

1880-1968

Author/Activist

Dr. John C. Maxwell said, “You don’t overcome challenges by making them smaller. You overcome them by making yourself bigger.” There was nothing Helen Keller could do to make things better. At that time, there was no surgery or device she could use. Throughout her entire life, she never regained her sight or hearing. She did learn to speak and was one of the top lecturers of her day.

So what happened to Helen Keller to make such a change? First, someone came into her life and helped her see that there was hope. Then she started to grow and never stopped. In her words, she said, “Life is a great adventure or nothing.” Have you seen your life as an adventure, or are you willing to settle with nothing?

There are many today who are healthy, strong, with sight, hearing, and full movement who are in a bigger prison than Helen Keller ever was. “It is a terrible thing,” Helen said, “to see and have no vision.” Some people see themselves as victims of life and allow whatever happens to overtake them. There are also many more success-minded people like Helen Keller in the world. Those who have every disadvantage, every handicap, and yet excel in life to enjoy success at its fullest.

Never say it cannot be done. Helen Keller proved that is not so. Be a success-minded person by following her example and joining the great adventure. Life is far too exciting to miss.

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

Philippians 4:13

You can learn more about Personal Development from author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey. To get his books, training material, or book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   

© 2020 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this may be reprinted or published without the permission of the author.