1. A focus of the One School- One Book program this year is "Show Your GRIT." Reference and reflect upon ways that Hingson shows his GRIT -Growth, Resilience, Independence, Tenacity.
In the novel ‘Thunder Dog’ by Michael Hingson, Hingson explains his amazing journey through the world trade center during the infamous terrorist attack that occurred on September 11, 2001. Throughout the novel Hingson shows his “GRIT”- (Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity) on copious occasions. One example would be when he continued to remain calm during his entire descent down the stairs within the world trade center. Hingson knew that if he showed the slightest bit of fear, his guide dog, Roselle, would sense it and their whole relationship would fall apart. Therefore, he showed growth by learning a new skill, disciplined patience. He could not have made down those stairs without this skill and by using it throughout the journey he showed resilience. Also, Hingson showed his independence when he told a fire fighter he didn’t need his help. Having Roselle by his side was enough for Hingson and he knew that firefighter had a much more important job to do. Finally, he showed his tenacity by holding strong long after he had reached the bottom floor. Somehow Hingson knew that his troubles would not be over until he was far away from that dreaded building. It wasn’t until he reached home that he and Roselle could completely relax. Thus, the delicious fruits of their labor came in the form of relinquishing in their accomplishment. They were, and still are survivors.
I agree with you. Hingson emphasizes a lot that his guide dog and him are a team and they work together to meet a common goal: live. However, I think it is also important to recognize how Hingson showed GRIT in other parts of his life, which seemed to have helped him survive the 9/11 attacks. Hingson uses past experience like riding a bike using echolocation and flying a plan to further develop his abilities no matter what other people said.
At a young age, Michael Hingson’s parents decided that it would be best to mainstream him, instead of placing him in schools geared toward the blind. They did not want to separate him from society and make him feel like a lesser person because of his lack of vision. In his childhood, since he was surrounded by mainly sighted people, Michael learned ways to navigate and live life in a way that worked for him. However, when he grew older, he gained more access to the blind community. When he was the president of a chapter of the National Federation of the Blind, Michael was not getting along with many of the others. Eventually, a peer told him that he was arrogant. Since he was mainstreamed, he always thought that his way of going about certain activities was the best and the easiest for everyone. After being told this about himself, he grew as a person in that his eyes were opened to the many different ways that blind people operate and he had to make compromises for the greater good. With every obstacle that got in his way, Michael had great fortitude and resilience. He recounts a time when he was going to interview for a job and the interviewer immediately rejected him because of his blindness. He is not the only person that has faced discrimination because of their lack of sight. He was confused and upset that people could be so ignorant. He did not let it distract him, however, and he landed a job instructing people how to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems. In fact, he used his blindness to HELP his career. When showing others how to operate the device, it caused them to think "If a blind man can do it, then so can I". Then, of course, his greatest obstacle of all: 9/11. Even though his physical ailments faded away within the couple of weeks after the attack, the psychological effects remain with him forever. He refused to become bitter and spiteful for the rest of his life and turned it into something positive. He began doing interviews and speaking to thousands of people about his experience every year. He always wanted to find his purpose, and he believes that he finally has. In terms of independence, Michael Hingson is very unique. He uses a system of interdependence between himself and his guide dog in order to independently live his life. He does not like when people try to give him special treatment. In Stairwell B, firefighters told him that someone would accompany him the rest of the way down. Michael continually refused special treatment, even in this case of emergency. The firefighter finally stopped trying once Michael mentioned that his friend, David, was nearby and would help him. Throughout the story, Hingson makes it a point to disprove the stereotypes that say blind people have a crippling disability. He never wants to "rely unnecessarily on other people, and I never play the blind card" (46). Just because he had to go about activities differently, like reading and writing or riding a bike, does not mean he was incapable of doing them. This past example is also an instance of his tenacity, or determination and persistence. When his neighbors saw him out riding his bike, they would call his parents and scold them for allowing Michael to put himself in danger. However, the truth was he was just as able as the sighted to ride a bike. He lived his life under what he called the "why not" principle. When others tried to tell him he could not do something because of his blindness, he said "why not" and did it anyway. He didn't "think of myself as 'blind Michael Hingson.'... I am also a husband, friend, son, brother, cousin, dog owner, sales manager, physics grad..." (99). Michael knew that if he spent his days feeling sorry for himself, his life would be miserable and he did not want that.
Michael does not use his blindness as an advantage for special treatment, which I am sure there are some people that do. He does not see his blindness as a disability because he can do everything a sighted person can do. Do you think Michael would still live by that "why not" principle if he were able to see? I think he would because that is a reflection of his character.
While I think that being blind affected his character, I do think that if he were able to see he would still consistently ask why not do something. While others would not try to tie him back as much, I do believe that he would still try new things.
Michael Hingson is a courageous and determined man. Born premature, he was accidentally blinded by the treatment that was used to keep premature babies healthy and alive. Despite his disability, Michael Hingson still grew up like the average, run-of-the-mill kid. He rode his bike, played with his toy car around the house, and made friends. Instead of losing hope when he faced obstacles, he developed new skills and, at times, improved upon skills that sighted people never learned, in order to live his life in the way he wanted. Hingson showed his “GRIT” in a plethora of ways. Although Hingson originally did not want to be any different from the sighted people he was raised around, he knew that, as a blind man, he could not live his live completely unaided. He showed his growth by getting a seeing-eye dog to help him. With each dog, he learned anew how to form a bond and trust his companion. This mutual relationship taught both counterparts how to grow alongside each other and follow each other’s leads at times. He illustrated his resilience in the face of discrimination many times. Hingson admitted, “The truth is, I face discrimination every day” (170). Hingson does not let the discrimination defeat or enrage him, however. Instead, he often deflects the prejudice of others with humor. Even in difficult situations, such as when he was wrongly ejected from an airline due to his disability, Hingson calmly and bravely testified against the company rather than getting angry and doing nothing. Hingson is also very independent. Such is evidenced by his unwillingness to use “the blind card” or expect special treatment due to his disability. When a firefighter offered to accompany Hingson the rest of the way down the steps, Hingson refused his help because he knew that he was just as able, if not more fit to descend the steps unaided, than the rest of the people there. Just because he was blind did not mean he was unable to help himself out of a dangerous situation; it angered Hingson that the firefighter did not believe he was capable of this task without a sighted person. Lastly, Hingson is tenacious. He persistently and determinedly seeks to accomplish his goals and dreams. When he is told that he is not suitable for a job because he is blind, he finds alternative routes and, through hard work and perseverance, eventually becomes the head of the Sales Department and works in the World Trade Center. He is an excellent example of hard work leading to success, despite the many obstacles in his path.
I think it is important to take notice of how derailing it is to have people constantly want to help you. Hingson does a great job of maintaining his integrity and independence. I am glad you added the piece about discrimination because even though some people mean well they could really be impeding Hingson from growing.
I agree with the fact that sometimes people just do not want help for whatever reason it may be and others need to understand that if one does not want help then they should respect their decision. Although in Mike's case it might seem like the wrong thing to do to not help a blind person, for someone like him, no help is what he needed so that he could feel like he was being treated like any other person, and develop independently.
Michael Hingson is a remarkable man and does not let his blindness get in the way of what he wants to accomplish as a person. Throughout his story and his life he has shown his GRIT (Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity). From a young age he had to learn how to cope and do things differently because he was blind. He did not mind, it would just make doing everyday tasks a little more challenging than they are supposed to be. He showed a growth in his skills. Michael says, "I began to pay more attention to what I could tell about my surroundings through my ears. And somehow I learned to hear the coffee table as I approached it" (Hingson 3). He grew and learned how to use his other senses to an advantage. Michael also displayed his growth as a person. The organization leader of the NFB, Gary Mackenstadt, told Michael that he very arrogant and he always thinks his way is the only way. Michael took this advice to meet people halfway and became a better person from it. Resilience, or the ability to bounce back quickly, is something Michael also demonstrated. Michael has the ability to adopt to unknown situations very quickly. Michael knew that what ever was occurring outside the tower was not good. He had to stay calm for Roselle because then she would sense it. He had to take the situation that was thrown at him and act as though every was okay and he did just that. Another example is when Michael has to go through extra security checks at the airport. Michael says, "I have a choice to make. I can seethe with anger at the injustice, but if I went that route, I'd be angry most of the time" (170). Thus, Michael decides to make light of the situation and keep it positive. The "I" in GRIT stands for Independence. Michael is the epitome of independence. From a young age he did things on his own because he did not feel his blindness limited him. Michael rode his bike, drove a car, flew a plane etc. Michael also got around the town by himself before he ever had a guide dog or a cane. Michael also always went to a regular school, not one specifically for blind people. He was able to succeed there just as any other student would. Michael displayed his independence when escaping from the tower. He refused the help of the firemen because he knew that he was just fine at leaving the tower by himself. He is confident in his abilities, as he should be. Tenacity is the last part of GRIT. Michael is a very tenacious or determined individual. Of course Michael was determined to get out of the tower. He knew how to keep everybody calm and laughing while moving at a fast pace. Michael was also always determined to make sure he was treated correctly. He once went to a restaurant, but he was not admitted entrance because of his guide dog. He was used to being treated in this manner. He knew that it was against the law to deny entrance to a person that needs a guide dog with them. He was determined to prove a point so the next night he went back with his other friends who had guide dogs and brought the written law with him. He had a nice dinner while making a point. Michael clearly displays his GRIT throughout the book.
Michael Hingson has embodied “GRIT” his whole life. Hingson demonstrated his ability to grow “after [a] much-needed attitude adjustment” (Hingson 133). Previously, Michael had been acting as if the blind community was not worth his time and had nothing to offer him. An organization leader at the National Federation of the Blind, Gary Mackenstadt, helped Michael to realize his own arrogance and attitude. Michael took Mackenstadt’s criticism constructively and used it to better himself. He was able to mature and open his mind and heart to a community that would greatly influence him in the future. Michael demonstrated resilience even when faced with catastrophe. During the 9/11 attack, he showed great poise as he adapted to the situation around him. He put a great deal of trust in his relationship with his guide dog Roselle, and he also had to have had trust and confidence in his own abilities. Even after such a traumatic experience, he quickly bounced back and took advantage of the opportunity he was given afterwards to “get a glimpse of what [his] larger purpose might be” (Hingson 163). He was asked to participate in several interviews and make speeches which led him on a journey of sharing his story in order to inspire others and educate people about blindness and having a guide dog. Michael bore positivity from an extremely negative experience. Independence was something Michael acquired from a young age. Luckily for him, Michael had parents who encouraged him to not let blindness be a disability and hinder his experience. As a kid, he learned on his own how to ride his bike around the neighborhood by strengthening his sense of hearing and using a form of echolocation. In order to get around his hometown, his university, and later on the World Trade Center, Michael would take time to familiarize himself with his surroundings, so he would know where he was at all times and be able to navigate with ease. As mentioned, Michael attended UC Irvine and did very well for himself. All in all, Michael did not allow his blindness to isolate him from society; he worked for everything he had and even used this apparent disadvantage to his advantage. Finally, Hingson’s proved himself to be tenacious. As stated before, he worked tirelessly for everything he had. He never allowed obstacles to get in the way of his goals. After a restaurant had refused to serve Michael, his friend, Aaron, and Aaron’s wife because they did not allow pets, Hingson, along with several blind friends of his and their guide-dogs, returned to that same restaurant; they were served on that occasion. Hingson had been unhappy with a restaurant’s treatment of blind people and their lack of knowledge of law. He was persistent in his fight for equality and acceptance. Furthermore, in the World Trade Center, along with Roselle, he kept moving towards safety. There were moments that he thought were his last, yet he never gave in. That attitude is the reason he is alive this very day, traveling and sharing his story.
Michael Hingson demonstrates “GRIT” in every aspect of his life from blindness to business. Michael was born prematurely and placed in a sealed incubator where pure oxygen was pumped into his lungs, causing him to have an eye disease (retinopathy of prematurity, ROP) that made him, “permanently and totally blind.” (Hingson xvii) From this moment on, Michael fought to be seen as a regular person; he was resilient in his attempts to become a part of society and to survive the 2001 terrorist attacks. He exemplifies who a strong, adaptable man is. He adapted quickly to life without sight through learning how to hear objects, how to use scan and remember areas, and how to be interact with a guide dog and act as a team. Michael learned that cooperation is extremely important, especially in times like 9/11, he realized that his guide dog had to rely on each other for support and guidances in order to survive, without Roselle Michael had more of a chance of dieing. Roselle and Michael stayed calm during the attack and trusted each other that they would get out of the building safely. Furthermore, Hingson shows his persistence and tenacity throughout the course of his memoir, in order to survive 9/11 and do what he wanted to do. Starting when Michael was only four years old, he trained his ears to “hear” the living room furniture, so he can drive around his toy car like any other kid. Also, when Michael was escaping the dust clouds caused by the collapsing Twin Towers, he and Roselle kept going forward: “I feel like I’m dying, the dust filling up my body and choking the life out of me. Somehow I hang on to Roselle’s harness and we keep moving. Roselle is right alongside, guiding perfectly. She never stops.” (111) Also, Michael emphasized that there are ways of getting out of tough situations and the key is to not lose hope; similar to how he made it down the stairs of the North tower and out of the suffocating dust clouds, “The dust cloud won’t last forever. Keep going and look for the way out. It will come.” (173) Additionally, Michael exhibits his independence when he rides his bicycle around the streets of Palmdale using his hearing skills. The neighbors feared for the boy and called his parents, however, Michael kept going and never stopped doing what he wanted. Also, Michael was even able to drive his car; although, he had to have someone direct him he still drove and never limited himself: “sometimes we’d have a parade and drive around campus or drive in the parking lots and honk and wave at friends just to get a reaction.” (69) He did not consider his blindness to be a disability, but just a tiny trait of Michael’s vast and ever-growing persona. Moreover, Michael details that after the 9/11 attacks he was changed forever; he, “walked away from Ground Zero a much different man from the one who unlocked the office door that morning.” (176) He continued to believe that cooperation is the key to success and that in order to live happily ever after society should treat each other with kindness, dignity, and respect. Also, when he traveled to share his story he realized how much people need to hear that there is hope and dreams still do exist. All in all, Michael grew into a steadfast man who will always believe that there is a purpose to everything and everyone and that there is hope for us all.
I think Michael was also able to find the humor and fun in his blindness. For example, when you touched on him driving around in the car and getting the reaction from his friends. He accepted his blindness and knew it was a challenge he was forced to face everyday in such a sight guided world, but instead of being depressed about it he was able to be positive and find the fun it in which I think is an important part of his optimistic character.
Hingson shows his “GRIT” every day of his life. The fact that he is able to not only survive but also thrive as a blind man in such a visual world just shows that he is a man of fortitude and strength. It is no miracle that Hingson lived through the height of the 9/11 tragedy, for his personality and lifestyle was one that prepared him for such a life and death situation. Michael Hingson is a man of adaptability. From infancy, he adapted to life without eyesight: he experimented with echolocation; he discovered guide dogs; he even used a cane despite the fact that he didn’t like the stigma that came with it. Hingson grows and adapts as a young boy which eventually allows him to grow and adapt as an adult. This ability lets Hingson make it out of the World Trade Center when it is hit. When the first plane collides, and no one knows any information, Hingson tells the reader, “I grew up in earthquake country near the San Andreas Fault in Southern California, so my first instinct is to go and stand in the doorway, but I know this is no earthquake” (Hingson 9). Though this does not seem like a remarkable sentence, it actually perfectly exemplifies how quickly Hingson can abandon his initial instinct to go with his better judgment. Instead of giving into his instinctual “fight or flight” response, Hingson maintains his wits and chooses the more logical decision. The pattern of choosing logic instead of instinct is what gets him out of the World Trade Center. Hingon’s “growth” in “GRIT” leads right into “resilience,” for after Hingson proves that he can grow and adapt to any situation, he proves his resilience by sticking to his decision and enduring whatever the outcome. The most obvious example of his resilience happens on his decent down the towers, the very incident that the majority of the book is centered around. Michael Hingson is not a young man when he is caught in 9/11, so walking from the 78th floor to the ground floor is no easy feat. However, Hingson is resilient. Instead of panicking, he walks calmly all the way out of the building, and not only does his calm nature keep everyone around him at ease, it also keeps his guide dog Roselle calm. He knows that she is probably having a harder time than he, but he helps her as much as he can by at least not making her feel panicked. (continued on next comment)
(Continued from previous) When it comes to his guide dogs, Michael Hingson is always dedicated. His guide dog is one of the best examples of his integrity. He always does what is best for it, whether or not what has to be done is what he wants to do. This happens once he and Roselle get to ground zero of the World Trade Center. He can only imagine how exhausted Roselle is and how much she just wants to take a break and drink the water that they are wading through, but Hingson does not let her. He knows that there could be all kinds of harmful chemicals mixed in that water, debris from the buildings, lighter fluid, jet fuel, so he keeps her from drinking it, though he wishes he could find her something to drink. Also, with an older guide dog, Holland, Hingson describes one particular instance when Holland kept running him into the same mailbox over and over again, so finally, “the last time, just as I was about to hit the mailbox again, I dropped the harness and jerked the leash, pulling him over toward me. He banged his head on the mailbox… The next time around, he nudged me over to the right so he could clear the mailbox. Problem solved” (19). So, when Holland kept making the same mistake, Hingson did what he had to do to get him to remember. Hingson was not trying to be cruel; he was teaching Holland how to be a better guide dog, and, though he hit his head, he was able to learn. Finally, throughout his entire life, Hingson has done everything just like everybody else, even though he is blind. Thus, his tenacity comes with maintaining this semblance of normalcy. There are definitely those people who don’t understand that he is a functioning human being, like the angry New Yorker who called a sales rep of Hingson his “handler” (105), or Hingson’s 9-year-old niece who asked him, “How can you go on a walk?” (125). Despite all of these people, though, Hingson is a successful adult who leads a long and happy life. His tenacity is what brings him so far as the World Trade Center in the first place. It is at the World Trade Center that he is able to continue to demonstrate his GRIT.
Hingson’s story demonstrates GRIT in a number of ways, both during the 9/11 attack and in the vignettes he wrote of his everyday life. This demonstration of GRIT is imperative to effectively conveying the message that Hingson sought to get across: blindness and disabilities are merely extra obstacles to get over, and are by no means indicative of what one can and cannot do. Without displaying his GRIT, Hingson would not be able to effectively back up his point. Hingson showcases his growth throughout the novel through his career path. Over time, he was able to realize exactly what he was passionate about. He grew from a young adult pursuing a career of physics and business to a writer and speaker to push his message: that blind people can participate in regular activities too. While he knew this and demonstrated this ever since he would run through his parent’s apartment with nothing to guide him as a toddler, he did not take any formal action to teach this to others. However, he grows to realize that this is his greatest passion, one that he would pursue over any other. Thus, he displayed his growth by discovering what he is truly passionate about. Throughout his life, Hingson proves that he is of a resilient nature through his persistent attitudes when learning new things. When learning to ride a bike, for example, he explained it was a little harder than it may be for other children; he may have fallen more, but he got up every time and tried again. However, he persisted in learning to ride and impressed (and scared) all of his neighbors in doing so. When the twin towers were coming down, he plowed down the stairs with a persistent attitude, offering others kind words and encouragement as they fled down over seventy flights of stairs. When someone else starts panicking and he did not succumb to rising panic but instead comforted them, he showed genuine resilience. Hingson’s story hinges on his independence: while others think that he needs to depend on others to get through his daily tasks, he maintains that he does not. Contrary to popular belief, he succeeded in demonstrating that he can successfully walk, get ready, read, write, learn, ride a bike, and participate in other tasks, simple and complex, by himself. On the contrary, he is dependent only upon his guide dog, or even just a cane or his hearing. In demonstrating his independence and strengths, he showcases his tenacity; while others say that he can’t do something, he shows that he indeed can, and is not shy about it. Whether it is skillfully running through his parent’s apartment with a toy car when he was young or driving around a college campus, Hingson demonstrates that he is not afraid to prove others wrong. Hingson continues to prove that he is full of tenacity in his courage during the September 11 attack, where he does not succumb to the chaos but instead chooses to calmly reflect and encourage others to continue on their journey down the stairs and out of the building. Therefore, Hingson embodies all aspects of GRIT, as proven throughout his life. Without the stories that demonstrate Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity, he would not easily convince the readers of his capabilities; indeed, his messages hinge upon the different aspects of GRIT.
You have beautifully displayed the different aspects of Hingsons very special personality. He is in fact resilient and independent, and throughout the novel he does grow and become more tenacious. I believe the bicycle metaphor is the best for describing him. He wouldn't let the scrapes and bruises deter him from getting back up and riding again. These qualities are what make him an absolutely wonderful man.
Michael Hingson demonstrated GRIT in every aspect of his life. He had to use his GRIT to succeed in the world, “After living for fifty years in a world designed for the sighted, I’ve been forced to find ways to adapt and cope” (Hingson 65).
Michael grew as a person when he realized he needed to change his attitude. He was working with the National Federation of the Blind and was told by the leader of the organization that he was being arrogant toward others. Michael soon recognized, “ because I did so well in school, I began to develop a bit of an attitude, especially with blind people who struggled more to cope with the challenges. I was locked in my own little academic world, unaware that there were other blind people out there who might have something to offer me, and me to them (131). He adjusted his attitude and showed that he could recognize his faults and try to fix them.
Michael showed resilience anytime someone second guessed his ability to do perform a job correctly. He also showed resilience in the towers when he kept climbing down the stairs even though he was scared and had fears about the stairwell catching fire or the sprinklers going off.
Michael become independent as a child. His parents wanted him to be mainstreamed so they sent him to public school instead of a blind school. This helped Michael feel normal and see no difference between himself and other kids his age. He was also independent enough to ride his bike around town on his own. His independence stayed with him through his life and helped him through college. Michael also showed independence in the towers when the passing firefighter didn’t believe that Michael could get out of the towers on his own. Michael insisted that he would be fine and that he was not alone since he had Roselle, but the firefighter continued to pester until Michael said that he was with his co-worker David.
Michael showed determination and tenacity when working for his degree at UC Irvine and came across a problem that he needed to solve. He could type on the computers but was not able to read what was displayed on the screen. At that time computers which could do these elaborate mathematical equations for physics were very new and exciting and Michael did not want to miss out on experiencing them but was unable to use the machine. Michael came up with the movement “Blind Power” to try and find a way to make the computer accessible to him. Dick Rubinstein helped Michael and made adjustments to the machine so that the computer impressed marks on paper that Michael could read in braille. Michael did not give up when he had the problem with the computer, he sought out a way to find a solution that would work for him.
To many, Michael Hingson's circumstances of being unable to see may seem like a curse. However, through his Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity, he is able to disprove the assumptions of others and overcome the struggles he is faced with. Hingson showed GRIT in his childhood that has continued on well into his adult years. As a child, Hingson was teased often, and much of this was a result of the fact that children (and even adults) were ignorant of the realities of blindness and had trouble understanding what he was going through. This was frustrating for him, but as he got older he grew into a more patient and understanding man--one who would be more willing to answer questions regarding his blindness and educate others. Dealing with his disability as a child, he would bump into things and have a hard time getting around. Even as a young boy, he was resilient and continued to stick to what he knew, which meant developing his other senses. He managed to teach himself how to get around places such as his house by using echolocation and his memory of where things were located. Even everyday things like crossing the street needed to be given extra attention to avoid danger. The process of obtaining a guide dog was a big step for Michael, giving him not only assistance but a friend. Being resilient does not mean tackling issues exclusively by yourself. The help of a guide dog was precisely what Michael Hingson needed at that time in his life. With that said, Hingson is a person who is particularly independent by nature. He made it very clear in his writing that at no time is he ever looking for sympathy from anyone. It is important to him that he remains capable of achieving the same things as anyone else, without any special treatment. This brings out his tenacity as well. Throughout his life, Hingson has made it a point that people need to treat him just as they would treat anyone else, and he is determined for this to happen for him and all other blind people. With the publishing of his book and the many talks he has given since his experience on September 11th, Hingson shows GRIT through his dedication towards showing the world that blind people are not defined by the fact that they are blind, and they are willing and able to accomplish just as much as the most ambitious sighted people can.
When faced with adversity, people may draw back in order to avoid further complications. In some cases people may accept their problem for what it is and how they move from that point forward shows how well they can handle a problem. Michael Hingson handled his problem well. Michael was unfortunately, most people might say, diagnosed with blindness since he was born. For many this might seem like an issue that would put someone's life at a standstill, but not for Mike. Throughout his life, Mike has used his being blind, as a reason to be a better person. He never stopped to feel bad about himself or give up on the challenges that come with being blind. He shows his GRIT (Growth, Resilience, Independence, Tenacity) throughout his whole life despite not being able to see. As he grew up Mike learned to not use his disability as a reason to be different from the rest. His parents agreed with him and were always on board with keeping him "mainstream" with society. At first however, Mike focused a lot on himself and making sure he had a good life while being blind, but as he grew up he learned that there were others who were blind who might not have been handling the problem as well as he was. As Mike got older, he got more involved in programs that helped blind people, slowly, he worked with different organizations in order to integrate blind people into everyday society. The fact that Mike was able to forget he was blind, essentially, and live the life of any normal person shows his resilience in that he was not brought down by the fact that he could not see. Given that Mike is blind, many of the things that he has done either solely relied on himself or on himself and his guide dogs. Mike never wanted help that was offered out of pity and became the man that he is today--graduation from high school, college, working at a firm as regional manager escaping the north tower, helping organizations with technology for the blind-- all on his own. Mike always had tenacity because he was always determined to do whatever he had set his mind too and almost always followed through. When he was not allowed to go to high school on the bus with his guide dog, he researched the law with his father and fought against the school so that he could do so.
-Growth, Resilience, Independence, Tenacity. Michael Hingston never let being blind stop him from what he wanted to do; he refused to see it as a disability, but instead, just a part of who he was. Although he was just trying to be a leader at the National Federation of the Blind, he was unaware of the arrogance that others perceived. When he was told of this, instead of letting it get to his head, he demonstrated growth and made changes and was humbled when he realized that others had greater obstacles than his own. Hingston showed resilience in the days after 9/11, where even though he had been through a traumatic event, he got back on his feet and shared his story with the world; he took something awful that happened to him and took the good from it. Hingston demonstrated independence when, as a kid, he biked around the neighborhood by himself. Even though some neighbors were horrifying and called the parents complaining, Hingston was able to deftly navigate his surroundings and successfully maneuver around town, only relying upon himself. Hingston showed tenacity when fleeing the tower on 9/11. Even though he was tired and terrified, he knew that he had to appear positive for the sake of others around him and for Roselle. He refused the help of passing firefighters and instead was able to conquer the stairs on his own.
Michael Higgins can attribute much of character to his parents. When Michael was young, his parents displayed tenacity, when they did not want to institutionalize Michael. They ignored advice from doctors to send Michael to a home for the blind. His parents continued to raise Michael alongside his brother, as if Michael had no disability. “My parents’ persistence served to educate my neighbors a little about what blind people can do(38).” Michael also has this mindset and determination. He learned to ride bikes, get a Phd, take the train and work. Resilience is illustrated by Michael, when in the World Trade Center Michael does not display his worry for Roselle to continue to work. He never displayed any fear to keep Roselle calm. Michael is very independent. Michael maneuvered his way through town at a young age, teaching himself echolocation. Michael assures the firefighters, who stopped and offered assistance, that he is independent and can escape without extra help. Michael shows growth when he went out to eat with friends. Michael was kicked out of the restaurant because of his guide dog, his friends wanted to tell off the restaurant by Michael told them it is best to just walk away and he sent a friendly reminder to the restaurant about the guide dog rule in California. Michael displays GRIT throughout the novel.
In the novel ‘Thunder Dog’ by Michael Hingson, Hingson explains his amazing journey through the world trade center during the infamous terrorist attack that occurred on September 11, 2001. Throughout the novel Hingson shows his “GRIT”- (Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity) on copious occasions. One example would be when he continued to remain calm during his entire descent down the stairs within the world trade center. Hingson knew that if he showed the slightest bit of fear, his guide dog, Roselle, would sense it and their whole relationship would fall apart. Therefore, he showed growth by learning a new skill, disciplined patience. He could not have made down those stairs without this skill and by using it throughout the journey he showed resilience. Also, Hingson showed his independence when he told a fire fighter he didn’t need his help. Having Roselle by his side was enough for Hingson and he knew that firefighter had a much more important job to do. Finally, he showed his tenacity by holding strong long after he had reached the bottom floor. Somehow Hingson knew that his troubles would not be over until he was far away from that dreaded building. It wasn’t until he reached home that he and Roselle could completely relax. Thus, the delicious fruits of their labor came in the form of relinquishing in their accomplishment. They were, and still are survivors.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Hingson emphasizes a lot that his guide dog and him are a team and they work together to meet a common goal: live. However, I think it is also important to recognize how Hingson showed GRIT in other parts of his life, which seemed to have helped him survive the 9/11 attacks. Hingson uses past experience like riding a bike using echolocation and flying a plan to further develop his abilities no matter what other people said.
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ReplyDeleteAt a young age, Michael Hingson’s parents decided that it would be best to mainstream him, instead of placing him in schools geared toward the blind. They did not want to separate him from society and make him feel like a lesser person because of his lack of vision. In his childhood, since he was surrounded by mainly sighted people, Michael learned ways to navigate and live life in a way that worked for him. However, when he grew older, he gained more access to the blind community. When he was the president of a chapter of the National Federation of the Blind, Michael was not getting along with many of the others. Eventually, a peer told him that he was arrogant. Since he was mainstreamed, he always thought that his way of going about certain activities was the best and the easiest for everyone. After being told this about himself, he grew as a person in that his eyes were opened to the many different ways that blind people operate and he had to make compromises for the greater good.
ReplyDeleteWith every obstacle that got in his way, Michael had great fortitude and resilience. He recounts a time when he was going to interview for a job and the interviewer immediately rejected him because of his blindness. He is not the only person that has faced discrimination because of their lack of sight. He was confused and upset that people could be so ignorant. He did not let it distract him, however, and he landed a job instructing people how to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems. In fact, he used his blindness to HELP his career. When showing others how to operate the device, it caused them to think "If a blind man can do it, then so can I". Then, of course, his greatest obstacle of all: 9/11. Even though his physical ailments faded away within the couple of weeks after the attack, the psychological effects remain with him forever. He refused to become bitter and spiteful for the rest of his life and turned it into something positive. He began doing interviews and speaking to thousands of people about his experience every year. He always wanted to find his purpose, and he believes that he finally has.
In terms of independence, Michael Hingson is very unique. He uses a system of interdependence between himself and his guide dog in order to independently live his life. He does not like when people try to give him special treatment. In Stairwell B, firefighters told him that someone would accompany him the rest of the way down. Michael continually refused special treatment, even in this case of emergency. The firefighter finally stopped trying once Michael mentioned that his friend, David, was nearby and would help him. Throughout the story, Hingson makes it a point to disprove the stereotypes that say blind people have a crippling disability. He never wants to "rely unnecessarily on other people, and I never play the blind card" (46). Just because he had to go about activities differently, like reading and writing or riding a bike, does not mean he was incapable of doing them.
This past example is also an instance of his tenacity, or determination and persistence. When his neighbors saw him out riding his bike, they would call his parents and scold them for allowing Michael to put himself in danger. However, the truth was he was just as able as the sighted to ride a bike. He lived his life under what he called the "why not" principle. When others tried to tell him he could not do something because of his blindness, he said "why not" and did it anyway. He didn't "think of myself as 'blind Michael Hingson.'... I am also a husband, friend, son, brother, cousin, dog owner, sales manager, physics grad..." (99). Michael knew that if he spent his days feeling sorry for himself, his life would be miserable and he did not want that.
Michael does not use his blindness as an advantage for special treatment, which I am sure there are some people that do. He does not see his blindness as a disability because he can do everything a sighted person can do. Do you think Michael would still live by that "why not" principle if he were able to see? I think he would because that is a reflection of his character.
DeleteWhile I think that being blind affected his character, I do think that if he were able to see he would still consistently ask why not do something. While others would not try to tie him back as much, I do believe that he would still try new things.
DeleteMichael Hingson is a courageous and determined man. Born premature, he was accidentally blinded by the treatment that was used to keep premature babies healthy and alive. Despite his disability, Michael Hingson still grew up like the average, run-of-the-mill kid. He rode his bike, played with his toy car around the house, and made friends. Instead of losing hope when he faced obstacles, he developed new skills and, at times, improved upon skills that sighted people never learned, in order to live his life in the way he wanted. Hingson showed his “GRIT” in a plethora of ways. Although Hingson originally did not want to be any different from the sighted people he was raised around, he knew that, as a blind man, he could not live his live completely unaided. He showed his growth by getting a seeing-eye dog to help him. With each dog, he learned anew how to form a bond and trust his companion. This mutual relationship taught both counterparts how to grow alongside each other and follow each other’s leads at times. He illustrated his resilience in the face of discrimination many times. Hingson admitted, “The truth is, I face discrimination every day” (170). Hingson does not let the discrimination defeat or enrage him, however. Instead, he often deflects the prejudice of others with humor. Even in difficult situations, such as when he was wrongly ejected from an airline due to his disability, Hingson calmly and bravely testified against the company rather than getting angry and doing nothing. Hingson is also very independent. Such is evidenced by his unwillingness to use “the blind card” or expect special treatment due to his disability. When a firefighter offered to accompany Hingson the rest of the way down the steps, Hingson refused his help because he knew that he was just as able, if not more fit to descend the steps unaided, than the rest of the people there. Just because he was blind did not mean he was unable to help himself out of a dangerous situation; it angered Hingson that the firefighter did not believe he was capable of this task without a sighted person. Lastly, Hingson is tenacious. He persistently and determinedly seeks to accomplish his goals and dreams. When he is told that he is not suitable for a job because he is blind, he finds alternative routes and, through hard work and perseverance, eventually becomes the head of the Sales Department and works in the World Trade Center. He is an excellent example of hard work leading to success, despite the many obstacles in his path.
ReplyDeleteI think it is important to take notice of how derailing it is to have people constantly want to help you. Hingson does a great job of maintaining his integrity and independence. I am glad you added the piece about discrimination because even though some people mean well they could really be impeding Hingson from growing.
DeleteI agree with the fact that sometimes people just do not want help for whatever reason it may be and others need to understand that if one does not want help then they should respect their decision. Although in Mike's case it might seem like the wrong thing to do to not help a blind person, for someone like him, no help is what he needed so that he could feel like he was being treated like any other person, and develop independently.
DeleteMichael Hingson is a remarkable man and does not let his blindness get in the way of what he wants to accomplish as a person. Throughout his story and his life he has shown his GRIT (Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity). From a young age he had to learn how to cope and do things differently because he was blind. He did not mind, it would just make doing everyday tasks a little more challenging than they are supposed to be. He showed a growth in his skills. Michael says, "I began to pay more attention to what I could tell about my surroundings through my ears. And somehow I learned to hear the coffee table as I approached it" (Hingson 3). He grew and learned how to use his other senses to an advantage. Michael also displayed his growth as a person. The organization leader of the NFB, Gary Mackenstadt, told Michael that he very arrogant and he always thinks his way is the only way. Michael took this advice to meet people halfway and became a better person from it.
ReplyDeleteResilience, or the ability to bounce back quickly, is something Michael also demonstrated. Michael has the ability to adopt to unknown situations very quickly. Michael knew that what ever was occurring outside the tower was not good. He had to stay calm for Roselle because then she would sense it. He had to take the situation that was thrown at him and act as though every was okay and he did just that. Another example is when Michael has to go through extra security checks at the airport. Michael says, "I have a choice to make. I can seethe with anger at the injustice, but if I went that route, I'd be angry most of the time" (170). Thus, Michael decides to make light of the situation and keep it positive.
The "I" in GRIT stands for Independence. Michael is the epitome of independence. From a young age he did things on his own because he did not feel his blindness limited him. Michael rode his bike, drove a car, flew a plane etc. Michael also got around the town by himself before he ever had a guide dog or a cane. Michael also always went to a regular school, not one specifically for blind people. He was able to succeed there just as any other student would. Michael displayed his independence when escaping from the tower. He refused the help of the firemen because he knew that he was just fine at leaving the tower by himself. He is confident in his abilities, as he should be.
Tenacity is the last part of GRIT. Michael is a very tenacious or determined individual. Of course Michael was determined to get out of the tower. He knew how to keep everybody calm and laughing while moving at a fast pace. Michael was also always determined to make sure he was treated correctly. He once went to a restaurant, but he was not admitted entrance because of his guide dog. He was used to being treated in this manner. He knew that it was against the law to deny entrance to a person that needs a guide dog with them. He was determined to prove a point so the next night he went back with his other friends who had guide dogs and brought the written law with him. He had a nice dinner while making a point. Michael clearly displays his GRIT throughout the book.
Michael Hingson has embodied “GRIT” his whole life. Hingson demonstrated his ability to grow “after [a] much-needed attitude adjustment” (Hingson 133). Previously, Michael had been acting as if the blind community was not worth his time and had nothing to offer him. An organization leader at the National Federation of the Blind, Gary Mackenstadt, helped Michael to realize his own arrogance and attitude. Michael took Mackenstadt’s criticism constructively and used it to better himself. He was able to mature and open his mind and heart to a community that would greatly influence him in the future.
ReplyDeleteMichael demonstrated resilience even when faced with catastrophe. During the 9/11 attack, he showed great poise as he adapted to the situation around him. He put a great deal of trust in his relationship with his guide dog Roselle, and he also had to have had trust and confidence in his own abilities. Even after such a traumatic experience, he quickly bounced back and took advantage of the opportunity he was given afterwards to “get a glimpse of what [his] larger purpose might be” (Hingson 163). He was asked to participate in several interviews and make speeches which led him on a journey of sharing his story in order to inspire others and educate people about blindness and having a guide dog. Michael bore positivity from an extremely negative experience.
Independence was something Michael acquired from a young age. Luckily for him, Michael had parents who encouraged him to not let blindness be a disability and hinder his experience. As a kid, he learned on his own how to ride his bike around the neighborhood by strengthening his sense of hearing and using a form of echolocation. In order to get around his hometown, his university, and later on the World Trade Center, Michael would take time to familiarize himself with his surroundings, so he would know where he was at all times and be able to navigate with ease. As mentioned, Michael attended UC Irvine and did very well for himself. All in all, Michael did not allow his blindness to isolate him from society; he worked for everything he had and even used this apparent disadvantage to his advantage.
Finally, Hingson’s proved himself to be tenacious. As stated before, he worked tirelessly for everything he had. He never allowed obstacles to get in the way of his goals. After a restaurant had refused to serve Michael, his friend, Aaron, and Aaron’s wife because they did not allow pets, Hingson, along with several blind friends of his and their guide-dogs, returned to that same restaurant; they were served on that occasion. Hingson had been unhappy with a restaurant’s treatment of blind people and their lack of knowledge of law. He was persistent in his fight for equality and acceptance. Furthermore, in the World Trade Center, along with Roselle, he kept moving towards safety. There were moments that he thought were his last, yet he never gave in. That attitude is the reason he is alive this very day, traveling and sharing his story.
Michael Hingson demonstrates “GRIT” in every aspect of his life from blindness to business. Michael was born prematurely and placed in a sealed incubator where pure oxygen was pumped into his lungs, causing him to have an eye disease (retinopathy of prematurity, ROP) that made him, “permanently and totally blind.” (Hingson xvii) From this moment on, Michael fought to be seen as a regular person; he was resilient in his attempts to become a part of society and to survive the 2001 terrorist attacks. He exemplifies who a strong, adaptable man is. He adapted quickly to life without sight through learning how to hear objects, how to use scan and remember areas, and how to be interact with a guide dog and act as a team. Michael learned that cooperation is extremely important, especially in times like 9/11, he realized that his guide dog had to rely on each other for support and guidances in order to survive, without Roselle Michael had more of a chance of dieing. Roselle and Michael stayed calm during the attack and trusted each other that they would get out of the building safely.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, Hingson shows his persistence and tenacity throughout the course of his memoir, in order to survive 9/11 and do what he wanted to do. Starting when Michael was only four years old, he trained his ears to “hear” the living room furniture, so he can drive around his toy car like any other kid. Also, when Michael was escaping the dust clouds caused by the collapsing Twin Towers, he and Roselle kept going forward: “I feel like I’m dying, the dust filling up my body and choking the life out of me. Somehow I hang on to Roselle’s harness and we keep moving. Roselle is right alongside, guiding perfectly. She never stops.” (111) Also, Michael emphasized that there are ways of getting out of tough situations and the key is to not lose hope; similar to how he made it down the stairs of the North tower and out of the suffocating dust clouds, “The dust cloud won’t last forever. Keep going and look for the way out. It will come.” (173)
Additionally, Michael exhibits his independence when he rides his bicycle around the streets of Palmdale using his hearing skills. The neighbors feared for the boy and called his parents, however, Michael kept going and never stopped doing what he wanted. Also, Michael was even able to drive his car; although, he had to have someone direct him he still drove and never limited himself: “sometimes we’d have a parade and drive around campus or drive in the parking lots and honk and wave at friends just to get a reaction.” (69) He did not consider his blindness to be a disability, but just a tiny trait of Michael’s vast and ever-growing persona.
Moreover, Michael details that after the 9/11 attacks he was changed forever; he, “walked away from Ground Zero a much different man from the one who unlocked the office door that morning.” (176) He continued to believe that cooperation is the key to success and that in order to live happily ever after society should treat each other with kindness, dignity, and respect. Also, when he traveled to share his story he realized how much people need to hear that there is hope and dreams still do exist. All in all, Michael grew into a steadfast man who will always believe that there is a purpose to everything and everyone and that there is hope for us all.
I think Michael was also able to find the humor and fun in his blindness. For example, when you touched on him driving around in the car and getting the reaction from his friends. He accepted his blindness and knew it was a challenge he was forced to face everyday in such a sight guided world, but instead of being depressed about it he was able to be positive and find the fun it in which I think is an important part of his optimistic character.
DeleteHingson shows his “GRIT” every day of his life. The fact that he is able to not only survive but also thrive as a blind man in such a visual world just shows that he is a man of fortitude and strength. It is no miracle that Hingson lived through the height of the 9/11 tragedy, for his personality and lifestyle was one that prepared him for such a life and death situation. Michael Hingson is a man of adaptability. From infancy, he adapted to life without eyesight: he experimented with echolocation; he discovered guide dogs; he even used a cane despite the fact that he didn’t like the stigma that came with it. Hingson grows and adapts as a young boy which eventually allows him to grow and adapt as an adult. This ability lets Hingson make it out of the World Trade Center when it is hit. When the first plane collides, and no one knows any information, Hingson tells the reader, “I grew up in earthquake country near the San Andreas Fault in Southern California, so my first instinct is to go and stand in the doorway, but I know this is no earthquake” (Hingson 9). Though this does not seem like a remarkable sentence, it actually perfectly exemplifies how quickly Hingson can abandon his initial instinct to go with his better judgment. Instead of giving into his instinctual “fight or flight” response, Hingson maintains his wits and chooses the more logical decision. The pattern of choosing logic instead of instinct is what gets him out of the World Trade Center. Hingon’s “growth” in “GRIT” leads right into “resilience,” for after Hingson proves that he can grow and adapt to any situation, he proves his resilience by sticking to his decision and enduring whatever the outcome. The most obvious example of his resilience happens on his decent down the towers, the very incident that the majority of the book is centered around. Michael Hingson is not a young man when he is caught in 9/11, so walking from the 78th floor to the ground floor is no easy feat. However, Hingson is resilient. Instead of panicking, he walks calmly all the way out of the building, and not only does his calm nature keep everyone around him at ease, it also keeps his guide dog Roselle calm. He knows that she is probably having a harder time than he, but he helps her as much as he can by at least not making her feel panicked. (continued on next comment)
ReplyDelete(Continued from previous) When it comes to his guide dogs, Michael Hingson is always dedicated. His guide dog is one of the best examples of his integrity. He always does what is best for it, whether or not what has to be done is what he wants to do. This happens once he and Roselle get to ground zero of the World Trade Center. He can only imagine how exhausted Roselle is and how much she just wants to take a break and drink the water that they are wading through, but Hingson does not let her. He knows that there could be all kinds of harmful chemicals mixed in that water, debris from the buildings, lighter fluid, jet fuel, so he keeps her from drinking it, though he wishes he could find her something to drink. Also, with an older guide dog, Holland, Hingson describes one particular instance when Holland kept running him into the same mailbox over and over again, so finally, “the last time, just as I was about to hit the mailbox again, I dropped the harness and jerked the leash, pulling him over toward me. He banged his head on the mailbox… The next time around, he nudged me over to the right so he could clear the mailbox. Problem solved” (19). So, when Holland kept making the same mistake, Hingson did what he had to do to get him to remember. Hingson was not trying to be cruel; he was teaching Holland how to be a better guide dog, and, though he hit his head, he was able to learn. Finally, throughout his entire life, Hingson has done everything just like everybody else, even though he is blind. Thus, his tenacity comes with maintaining this semblance of normalcy. There are definitely those people who don’t understand that he is a functioning human being, like the angry New Yorker who called a sales rep of Hingson his “handler” (105), or Hingson’s 9-year-old niece who asked him, “How can you go on a walk?” (125). Despite all of these people, though, Hingson is a successful adult who leads a long and happy life. His tenacity is what brings him so far as the World Trade Center in the first place. It is at the World Trade Center that he is able to continue to demonstrate his GRIT.
ReplyDeleteHingson’s story demonstrates GRIT in a number of ways, both during the 9/11 attack and in the vignettes he wrote of his everyday life. This demonstration of GRIT is imperative to effectively conveying the message that Hingson sought to get across: blindness and disabilities are merely extra obstacles to get over, and are by no means indicative of what one can and cannot do. Without displaying his GRIT, Hingson would not be able to effectively back up his point.
ReplyDeleteHingson showcases his growth throughout the novel through his career path. Over time, he was able to realize exactly what he was passionate about. He grew from a young adult pursuing a career of physics and business to a writer and speaker to push his message: that blind people can participate in regular activities too. While he knew this and demonstrated this ever since he would run through his parent’s apartment with nothing to guide him as a toddler, he did not take any formal action to teach this to others. However, he grows to realize that this is his greatest passion, one that he would pursue over any other. Thus, he displayed his growth by discovering what he is truly passionate about.
Throughout his life, Hingson proves that he is of a resilient nature through his persistent attitudes when learning new things. When learning to ride a bike, for example, he explained it was a little harder than it may be for other children; he may have fallen more, but he got up every time and tried again. However, he persisted in learning to ride and impressed (and scared) all of his neighbors in doing so. When the twin towers were coming down, he plowed down the stairs with a persistent attitude, offering others kind words and encouragement as they fled down over seventy flights of stairs. When someone else starts panicking and he did not succumb to rising panic but instead comforted them, he showed genuine resilience.
Hingson’s story hinges on his independence: while others think that he needs to depend on others to get through his daily tasks, he maintains that he does not. Contrary to popular belief, he succeeded in demonstrating that he can successfully walk, get ready, read, write, learn, ride a bike, and participate in other tasks, simple and complex, by himself. On the contrary, he is dependent only upon his guide dog, or even just a cane or his hearing.
In demonstrating his independence and strengths, he showcases his tenacity; while others say that he can’t do something, he shows that he indeed can, and is not shy about it. Whether it is skillfully running through his parent’s apartment with a toy car when he was young or driving around a college campus, Hingson demonstrates that he is not afraid to prove others wrong. Hingson continues to prove that he is full of tenacity in his courage during the September 11 attack, where he does not succumb to the chaos but instead chooses to calmly reflect and encourage others to continue on their journey down the stairs and out of the building.
Therefore, Hingson embodies all aspects of GRIT, as proven throughout his life. Without the stories that demonstrate Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity, he would not easily convince the readers of his capabilities; indeed, his messages hinge upon the different aspects of GRIT.
You have beautifully displayed the different aspects of Hingsons very special personality. He is in fact resilient and independent, and throughout the novel he does grow and become more tenacious. I believe the bicycle metaphor is the best for describing him. He wouldn't let the scrapes and bruises deter him from getting back up and riding again. These qualities are what make him an absolutely wonderful man.
DeleteMichael Hingson demonstrated GRIT in every aspect of his life. He had to use his GRIT to succeed in the world, “After living for fifty years in a world designed for the sighted, I’ve been forced to find ways to adapt and cope” (Hingson 65).
ReplyDeleteMichael grew as a person when he realized he needed to change his attitude. He was working with the National Federation of the Blind and was told by the leader of the organization that he was being arrogant toward others. Michael soon recognized, “ because I did so well in school, I began to develop a bit of an attitude, especially with blind people who struggled more to cope with the challenges. I was locked in my own little academic world, unaware that there were other blind people out there who might have something to offer me, and me to them (131). He adjusted his attitude and showed that he could recognize his faults and try to fix them.
Michael showed resilience anytime someone second guessed his ability to do perform a job correctly. He also showed resilience in the towers when he kept climbing down the stairs even though he was scared and had fears about the stairwell catching fire or the sprinklers going off.
Michael become independent as a child. His parents wanted him to be mainstreamed so they sent him to public school instead of a blind school. This helped Michael feel normal and see no difference between himself and other kids his age. He was also independent enough to ride his bike around town on his own. His independence stayed with him through his life and helped him through college. Michael also showed independence in the towers when the passing firefighter didn’t believe that Michael could get out of the towers on his own. Michael insisted that he would be fine and that he was not alone since he had Roselle, but the firefighter continued to pester until Michael said that he was with his co-worker David.
Michael showed determination and tenacity when working for his degree at UC Irvine and came across a problem that he needed to solve. He could type on the computers but was not able to read what was displayed on the screen. At that time computers which could do these elaborate mathematical equations for physics were very new and exciting and Michael did not want to miss out on experiencing them but was unable to use the machine. Michael came up with the movement “Blind Power” to try and find a way to make the computer accessible to him. Dick Rubinstein helped Michael and made adjustments to the machine so that the computer impressed marks on paper that Michael could read in braille. Michael did not give up when he had the problem with the computer, he sought out a way to find a solution that would work for him.
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ReplyDeleteTo many, Michael Hingson's circumstances of being unable to see may seem like a curse. However, through his Growth, Resilience, Independence, and Tenacity, he is able to disprove the assumptions of others and overcome the struggles he is faced with. Hingson showed GRIT in his childhood that has continued on well into his adult years. As a child, Hingson was teased often, and much of this was a result of the fact that children (and even adults) were ignorant of the realities of blindness and had trouble understanding what he was going through. This was frustrating for him, but as he got older he grew into a more patient and understanding man--one who would be more willing to answer questions regarding his blindness and educate others. Dealing with his disability as a child, he would bump into things and have a hard time getting around. Even as a young boy, he was resilient and continued to stick to what he knew, which meant developing his other senses. He managed to teach himself how to get around places such as his house by using echolocation and his memory of where things were located. Even everyday things like crossing the street needed to be given extra attention to avoid danger. The process of obtaining a guide dog was a big step for Michael, giving him not only assistance but a friend. Being resilient does not mean tackling issues exclusively by yourself. The help of a guide dog was precisely what Michael Hingson needed at that time in his life. With that said, Hingson is a person who is particularly independent by nature. He made it very clear in his writing that at no time is he ever looking for sympathy from anyone. It is important to him that he remains capable of achieving the same things as anyone else, without any special treatment. This brings out his tenacity as well. Throughout his life, Hingson has made it a point that people need to treat him just as they would treat anyone else, and he is determined for this to happen for him and all other blind people. With the publishing of his book and the many talks he has given since his experience on September 11th, Hingson shows GRIT through his dedication towards showing the world that blind people are not defined by the fact that they are blind, and they are willing and able to accomplish just as much as the most ambitious sighted people can.
ReplyDeleteWhen faced with adversity, people may draw back in order to avoid further complications. In some cases people may accept their problem for what it is and how they move from that point forward shows how well they can handle a problem. Michael Hingson handled his problem well. Michael was unfortunately, most people might say, diagnosed with blindness since he was born. For many this might seem like an issue that would put someone's life at a standstill, but not for Mike. Throughout his life, Mike has used his being blind, as a reason to be a better person. He never stopped to feel bad about himself or give up on the challenges that come with being blind. He shows his GRIT (Growth, Resilience, Independence, Tenacity) throughout his whole life despite not being able to see. As he grew up Mike learned to not use his disability as a reason to be different from the rest. His parents agreed with him and were always on board with keeping him "mainstream" with society. At first however, Mike focused a lot on himself and making sure he had a good life while being blind, but as he grew up he learned that there were others who were blind who might not have been handling the problem as well as he was. As Mike got older, he got more involved in programs that helped blind people, slowly, he worked with different organizations in order to integrate blind people into everyday society. The fact that Mike was able to forget he was blind, essentially, and live the life of any normal person shows his resilience in that he was not brought down by the fact that he could not see. Given that Mike is blind, many of the things that he has done either solely relied on himself or on himself and his guide dogs. Mike never wanted help that was offered out of pity and became the man that he is today--graduation from high school, college, working at a firm as regional manager escaping the north tower, helping organizations with technology for the blind-- all on his own. Mike always had tenacity because he was always determined to do whatever he had set his mind too and almost always followed through. When he was not allowed to go to high school on the bus with his guide dog, he researched the law with his father and fought against the school so that he could do so.
ReplyDelete-Growth, Resilience, Independence, Tenacity.
ReplyDeleteMichael Hingston never let being blind stop him from what he wanted to do; he refused to see it as a disability, but instead, just a part of who he was. Although he was just trying to be a leader at the National Federation of the Blind, he was unaware of the arrogance that others perceived. When he was told of this, instead of letting it get to his head, he demonstrated growth and made changes and was humbled when he realized that others had greater obstacles than his own.
Hingston showed resilience in the days after 9/11, where even though he had been through a traumatic event, he got back on his feet and shared his story with the world; he took something awful that happened to him and took the good from it.
Hingston demonstrated independence when, as a kid, he biked around the neighborhood by himself. Even though some neighbors were horrifying and called the parents complaining, Hingston was able to deftly navigate his surroundings and successfully maneuver around town, only relying upon himself.
Hingston showed tenacity when fleeing the tower on 9/11. Even though he was tired and terrified, he knew that he had to appear positive for the sake of others around him and for Roselle. He refused the help of passing firefighters and instead was able to conquer the stairs on his own.
Michael Higgins can attribute much of character to his parents. When Michael was young, his parents displayed tenacity, when they did not want to institutionalize Michael. They ignored advice from doctors to send Michael to a home for the blind. His parents continued to raise Michael alongside his brother, as if Michael had no disability. “My parents’ persistence served to educate my neighbors a little about what blind people can do(38).” Michael also has this mindset and determination. He learned to ride bikes, get a Phd, take the train and work. Resilience is illustrated by Michael, when in the World Trade Center Michael does not display his worry for Roselle to continue to work. He never displayed any fear to keep Roselle calm. Michael is very independent. Michael maneuvered his way through town at a young age, teaching himself echolocation. Michael assures the firefighters, who stopped and offered assistance, that he is independent and can escape without extra help. Michael shows growth when he went out to eat with friends. Michael was kicked out of the restaurant because of his guide dog, his friends wanted to tell off the restaurant by Michael told them it is best to just walk away and he sent a friendly reminder to the restaurant about the guide dog rule in California. Michael displays GRIT throughout the novel.
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