If I Could See For Just Three Days

After being stricken with a devastating illness before she was two, Helen Keller (1880--1968) spent the rest of her life both blind and deaf. Scaling these two great obstacles, however, she rose to international fame and offered solace and comfort to many in similar straits.

In "Three Days to See," an article she wrote for the Atlantic Monthly in January 1933, Miss Keller eloquently ponders what she would do should her vision be miraculously restored for just three days. But she makes one statement that nibbles away at my complacency. "The eyes of seeing persons soon become accustomed to the routine of their surroundings, and they actually see only the startling and spectacular."

It's true. I have enjoyed the blessing of physical sight my entire life--but have often failed to see beyond the obvious. But what would I see should my eyes be truly opened for three short days?

I would see my wife and children as precious treasures I will have and hold but for a few moments. Today might be our last time to be together.

I would see the investments and love my parents poured out toward me--and the sacrifices and privations they willingly bore even when I didn't do right.

I would look more closely at teachers I failed to appreciate and see the love they had for teaching--even teaching those who didn't want to be taught.

I would see immense value in the few moments it takes to speak to a child, to stroke a faithful pet, to show respect to an older person, to enjoy a sunset.

I would see that my freedoms have been bought with a great price someone else willingly paid. I would see the lifelong heartache in parents whose children were consumed by war--and no one remembers.

I would see the value of honest work and faithfulness to duty I too often view as drudgery and a cause for complaint.

I would see that health and opportunity are gifts of God that should not be squandered by failing to use them wisely each day.

I would see the value of the written word and how even a simple note dashed off in a minute may be treasured for a lifetime by someone who is hurting or lonely.

I would see that trials in life are inevitable, and those whom I respect the most have endured their personal hardships without grumbling.

I would see friends and family who have graciously overlooked my great transgressions even as I was demanding perfection from them.

I would see that true success is unrelated to the accumulation of money and that leaving a good name provides a far more secure inheritance.

I would see that being content is sometimes more important than having the last word.

If I could see--see with the eyes of my heart for just three days--I believe I would thereafter see a better person growing within.

Copyright 2002 James McAlister

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