Cultured Views

Who was your childhood hero?

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Look at this wonderful photograph on the left. It was recently discovered in a private collection in the United States.

The little girl is Helen Keller and the lady is her teacher and lifelong companion Annie Sullivan. I think most of us know the story of Helen Keller and how she overcame being blind and deaf to become a college graduate and world famous author and public speaker. Contrary to old beliefs she was not actually incapable of speech; being deaf from the age of two inhibited her speech development but she gradually developed the ability to speak as an adult.

Helen and Annie were heroes of mine when I was a child. I read the book that Helen wrote about her childhood in Alabama; her sickness and the after effects of the scarlet fever which robbed her of her sight and hearing. I so admired Helen for her courage and ability, and I admired Annie - who came from a poverty stricken background - for her detemination to teach this child how to communicate and to live a full and interesting life. Annie too had failing eyesight during her life and was the best thing to ever happen to Helen.

The story of Helen Keller is one which should be included in every child’s education - determination, acceptance and courage. Three things which will equip any child for the challenges in their future lives.

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