Imagine my experience in the desert and mountains with Helen Keller. Hiking through the desert is dangerous without adding the loss of your sight or your ability to hear. The cholla cactus tend to jump out when you are too close and the trails are rocky and winding. During my past hikes I’ve seen centipedes, rattlesnakes, bobcats, and coyotes, however the desert is beautiful to experience.
Fearlessly, Helen hiked with her long-time teacher and companion Anne Sullivan on one side and me on the other. Unlike me, Helen immediately felt the slight breeze, contemplated the incline of the trail, and caught the scent of the desert flowers. She took my hand and put it on her face, motioning for me to feel the outline of her mouth, eyes and cheeks. In turn, she touched my face and felt the outline of my mouth, eyes and cheeks. At this point Helen used her hands to talk to Anne and asked her to translate.
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” She smiled and tapped the top of my hand.
Thanksgiving is the perfect day to feel from our hearts. Today I held my six month old granddaughter Katie and felt her wonder and beauty as I rocked her to sleep. My five year old granddaughter cuddled on the other side of me listening to our ongoing story of an animal family. As the story progressed Natalie’s arms were wrapped around me and her legs curled on top of mine. Rocking the two little girls with my eyes closed I felt their love.
I am thankful for my ability to see, feel, and hear my family. Thinking of Helen Keller and the amazing things she was able to accomplish makes the little difficulties in life seem so trivial.
Happy Thanksgiving!
