PROMPT: Tell us a story that helps us better understand a person, place, or thing you find inspiring
He stuttered, struggling to get the words out. "After my-my brain injury, I-I-I was very depressed and suicidal...". He closed his eyes in frustration, searching his brain for where he had left off, as I sat silently awaiting the rest of his story.
At 26 years old, Brian was hit by a car while riding his bicycle. On impact, Brian's life changed forever. His life was turned upside down and he had little desire to set it right. Instead of shooting hoops with friends in the park, he was learning how to walk again. For the first time, eight long years later, he walked into Great Expectations Together (GET), the non-profit where he works and I volunteer. Since then, GET has mended his life immensely. Initially, Brian volunteered all of his free time. Now, he holds a paid position teaching a writing class that puts his college degree to work.
Just as GET lifted Brian out of his darkest depths, GET has changed my life. The GET program and the people who dedicate their hard work and time continually inspire me. Through working with people like Brian, I have come to realize how fortunate I am and that it is possible to provide an inclusive place where people of all ages and abilities can feel at home.
Suddenly, Brian is pulled back to his thoughts. With no hesitation, stuttering, or signs of disability, he continues, "my life now has a fuller, richer purpose, and I have GET to thank".
He stuttered, struggling to get the words out. "After my-my brain injury, I-I-I was very depressed and suicidal...". He closed his eyes in frustration, searching his brain for where he had left off, as I sat silently awaiting the rest of his story.
At 26 years old, Brian was hit by a car while riding his bicycle. On impact, Brian's life changed forever. His life was turned upside down and he had little desire to set it right. Instead of shooting hoops with friends in the park, he was learning how to walk again. For the first time, eight long years later, he walked into Great Expectations Together (GET), the non-profit where he works and I volunteer. Since then, GET has mended his life immensely. Initially, Brian volunteered all of his free time. Now, he holds a paid position teaching a writing class that puts his college degree to work.
Just as GET lifted Brian out of his darkest depths, GET has changed my life. The GET program and the people who dedicate their hard work and time continually inspire me. Through working with people like Brian, I have come to realize how fortunate I am and that it is possible to provide an inclusive place where people of all ages and abilities can feel at home.
Suddenly, Brian is pulled back to his thoughts. With no hesitation, stuttering, or signs of disability, he continues, "my life now has a fuller, richer purpose, and I have GET to thank".
