Blind Veteran shares message of hope and perseverance
Luther Williams became legally blind 28 years ago. The now 85-year-old Veteran, who served as a firefighter in the U.S. Air Force from 1957-1961, had to figure out a new way of life without his vision.
The Milwaukee Veteran found himself reaching back to words of advice offered by a sergeant during his time in the Air Force. “Stick with me,” the sergeant had told him. “Never forget, you can do this.”
Williams internalized those words and found solace in his faith. He learned to rely on his other four senses, accept his disability and appreciate the beauty of life.
As he grew older and wiser, he realized his life lessons could be helpful for others facing a disability or challenge that seems unsurmountable.
Two years ago, with the help of his son, he wrote a book called “The Dark Years of My Life.” The purpose of the book is to inspire people to believe in God and themselves, despite any physical limitations, so they can overcome life’s challenges.
“I thought I could be both inspirational and encouraging to people with disabilities and the people who care for them,” said Williams. “I wanted to share the same message that the sergeant shared with me long ago: ‘You can do this.’”
Parts of Williams’ personal journey are captured in the book. For example, he writes about walking toward his garden in his backyard though he couldn’t see. Feeling the warmth of the sun on one side of his face helped guide him to the spot.
He also credits his “guardian angels.” Williams said there are people all around us who are willing to help.
“There’s a lot of goodness in the world,” he said. “Sometimes you just have to pause and listen.”
Instead of giving up in frustration, Williams said we should keep an open mind.
“We all have something to learn,” he said. “I have learned this in the world, and God is looking out for us.”
Williams’ book is available on Amazon.