- Published: August 6, 2022
- Updated: August 6, 2022
- Level: Undergraduate
- Language: English
- Downloads: 48
In my younger years, I used to take walks to the park with my grandfather who used to put his left hand on my shoulder for guidance. He needed the guidance since he had lost his sight to a battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis in his twenties. He also had to limp since he was born before a time that vaccines were mandatory and he was inflicted with polio when he was a child. However, these adversities did not keep him from enjoying a full life.
I remember he rode the swings with me, talked to me and most importantly made me understand that the hurdles in life which we are faced with can always be overcome. He contributed greatly towards the development of my character more than anyone else I have had contact with. His example of life is one which has inspired me towards greater heights and it serves as a measure for me to live my life without complaining about the situation I am in.
It is understandable that many people in his position would be unable or even unwilling to work and choose to sit at home to while out their days. However, my grandfather continued his education at the Perkins School for the Blind and adapted to life as best as he could. He has quite a repute as cook as he is able to feel out the ingredients and makes outstanding food without even seeing what he has produced. His hands have become his eyes and even today he is able to wash, iron and fold his clothes better than what would come out of a professional laundry. He even developed his musical skills by playing the guitar and shared this passion of his with my by teaching me how to play it as well.
My relationship with him developed because my parents were both working and they had to place me in the care of my grandparents. It was there where I learnt lessons of integrity, self reliance and honesty since he displayed these qualities in whatever he did in his life. As a loving husband and a father of seven children, he always made sure that family came first and everything else came second for him. I feel that every day for him was a choice to either give up, or to continue fighting despite the disabilities which had taken a lot from him.
However, that did not stop him from giving back to society since he volunteered his time and mentored many other people who had similar disabilities. His patience and kindness are remembered by many who had a chance to interact with him. He always listened and reminded me that patience is a virtue that can go a long way towards making the measure of a man. The values and the confidence displayed by him gave him a solid character and that is something I hope to emulate as I go through the journey of life. Particularly when it comes to the next stage in life I plan to take i. e. college.