There was once a little boy named Sam who lived in the small, quiet village of Ballymore. Sam was unlike any other child in the village. He was born without the ability to see. But what he lacked in sheer vision, he made up with his dreams. Sam's aspirations were bigger than the mountains that surrounded Ballymore. He aspired to play the piano and perform on great stages around the world.
Now, the people of the village had limited resources and knowledge. The concept of a blind pianist was far beyond their comprehension, so very few encouraged Sam. Many even mocked him, saying, How can you play without seeing the keys, Sam? But Sam was not disillusioned. He said confidently, I may not see the keys, but I can feel the music.
Every day, Sam made his way to the middle of the village where stood an old, rundown church with an equally forlorn piano. He felt his way skillfully round the dilapidated instrument and played soulful melodies. The villagers heard him play but very few acknowledged his talent.
Sam’s situation would have discouraged any other person, but not him. He took the setbacks, the rejections, the taunts, and the discouragement, and transformed them into fuel. A fuel that pushed him, urged him, and dragged him closer to his dream.
His determination even caught the attention of a random traveller who was passing through Ballymore. This stranger was none other than Matthew, the famous pianist. The sweet melody that Sam played in the church had urged Matthew to take a detour and explore. Who is this boy and why is he alone in the church? he asked one of the townsfolk.
Upon learning about Sam's life and aspiration, Matthew was awestruck. He was impressed by the boy's determination and passion. He decided to train the little boy, to help him reach his dream. This was the turning point in Sam's life. He was filled with immense joy and gratitude.
Matthew began training Sam with not just techniques but also values like patience, discipline, dedication, and diligence. With every passing day, Sam got better and better. His music touched hearts, and even those who mocked him earlier had nothing but regards now.
Years passed, Sam's skills were polished, and the time came when Matthew felt Sam was ready to take a bigger stage. This was exactly what Sam had been working on all his life. Sam was both nervous and excited. The thought of performing in a concert filled him with awe, respect, and anticipation. He was worried about his performance- how could he put on a show as big as this?
But Matthew reassured him. Sam, remember you are not performing for others but for yourself. The piano is an extension of yourself and the notes are your emotions. Do not let fear dictate you. Conquer it.
On the day of the concert, a tall young man walked onto the stage. People's murmur hushed as he guided himself to the piano. His fingers gently brushed the keys. The melody that followed was soulful, enchanting, and spellbinding. It was as though the piano was an extension of Sam's soul. The sound of applause echoed throughout the hall. No one knew of Sam's blindness unless they saw it, for it did not reflect in his music.
The humble blind boy from the small village was now Sam, the respected world-renowned pianist.
Moral of the story: Your circumstances do not define your future. Your passion and determination do. No matter what comes your way, never give up on your dreams. The journey might be difficult, the roadblock might seem huge, but remember, the harder the struggle, the more glorious the triumph. Believe in yourself and give your very best, success shall follow.
And that's the story of Success- that has touched, taught and transformed the lives of many.