“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 that has been opened for us.”
This is an inspirational quotation close to my heart.
It is powerful and moving, especially when you consider the source. It’s a quote from Helen Keller, the first deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree; made famous through the dramatic telling of her life in the play and movie The Miracle Worker.
It’s the story of Keller’s transformation from someone who was isolated and unable to communicate into an author, lecturer and political activist thanks to the efforts of her teacher, Anne Sullivan. It was a transformation from a world of frustration and darkness to a world of excitement and light.
Just imagine the challenge for teacher and student. Most people would think that being both deaf and blind would present an insurmountable obstacle. But together they overcame Helen Keller’s enormous disadvantages and she enjoyed enormous success—and happiness.
The Helen Keller life story shows us that determination, creativity, and a genuine, authentic partnership can indeed achieve miracles. It totally puts into perspective the kinds of challenges and obstacles that most of us encounter.
Her message is inspiring and motivating. No matter how much success and happiness one has achieved the door—for whatever reason—can get slammed in your face. More often than not there is another door that opens but many people cannot see it or they are scared of opening it. Many people look longingly at the old door because it is easy to remain with what is known and comfortable.
The true entrepreneur, however, is not held back by the past. The true entrepreneur grabs the handle and wrests open the new door. He opens it wide and steps boldly into the future.
That’s the message that I behold in Helen Keller’s words.
Happiness is yours for the making. It is yours for the taking. But it is up to you to recognize an opportunity to do something bigger and better than you have ever done before.
The new door can open up a new world if you have the courage and character to make it happen. You cannot go back in life’s journey. You can only go forward. Recognize when it is opportune to undertake that choice. Open that door. Open your freedom of possibilities. And, remember, forward movement is everything.