Helen Adams Keller was an activist and an author from the United States of America; who is famous for being the first deaf and blind person in the world to have earned a Bachelors’ degree. Born in 1880, she was deaf and blind by birth and since she lived an isolated life; her understanding of language had not developed at all. However, all changed when she came under the tutelage of Anne Sullivan, her teacher, who introduced her to the English language and ensured that she could communicate. Keller was also an activist who, as a member of the Industrial Workers of the World, worked tirelessly for women’s rights, socialism and anti-militarism among others. Her life and times has also been immortalised in the Hollywood film The Miracle Worker which depicted her struggles with learning as a child and eventual triumph. She is without doubt one of the biggest icons in the history of the United States and indeed of the world; which is why it is not a surprise that her birthday on June the 27th is celebrated as ‘Helen Keller Day’ in Pennsylvania. Keller is an inspiration for millions of people all over the world and here are some select quotes which will give you a glimpse into her beautiful mind.
When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.
Death is no more than passing from one room into another. But there's a difference for me, you know. Because in that other room I shall be able to see.
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.
Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.
