Page 236 - The Story of My Lif

Sitting here in my study, surrounded by my books, enjoying the sweet and
intimate companionship of the great and the wise, I am trying to realize what my
life might have been, if Dr. Howe had failed in the great task God gave him to

perform. If he had not taken upon himself the responsibility of Laura Bridgman’s
education and led her out of the pit of Acheron back to her human inheritance,
should I be a sophomore at Radcliffe College to-day—who can say? But it is idle
to speculate about what might have been in connection with Dr. Howe’s great
achievement.

I think only those who have escaped that death-in-life existence, from which
Laura Bridgman was rescued, can realize how isolated, how shrouded in
darkness, how cramped by its own impotence is a soul without thought or faith
or hope. Words are powerless to describe the desolation of that prison-house, or
the joy of the soul that is delivered out of its captivity. When we compare the
needs and helplessness of the blind before Dr. Howe began his work, with their
present usefulness and independence, we realize that great things have been done
in our midst. What if physical conditions have built up high walls about us?
Thanks to our friend and helper, our world lies upward; the length and breadth
and sweep of the heavens are ours!

It is pleasant to think that Dr. Howe’s noble deeds will receive their due tribute
of affection and gratitude, in the city, which was the scene of his great labors and
splendid victories for humanity.

With kind greetings, in which my teacher joins me, I am Affectionately your
friend,

HELEN KELLER.

TO THE HON. GEORGE FRISBIE HOAR