A Hero: A Short Story

I twirled in circles as the crystal-clear, waist-deep pool water speckled my body. Cradled in my slender arms was my 6-year-old cousin. Delighted giggles escaped her lips as her coffee-colored eyes met my gaze. I smiled back in return, and asked quietly, “Can you hear the water, Brooke? Listen!” I paused from spinning and brushed the transparent water back and forth with my cupped hand. She stood still a moment, and then copied my hand motions. An amiable grin spread across her charismatic countenance. At that moment, under the immense clouds and soft, spectacular sunset, I knew this was going to be a day she would never forget.

********

“C’mon Brook!” I held out my tanned arm to her, wishing she would take my hand. Instead, she slumped down

in disagreement.
“I no wanna go in the water!” she cried and pushed my hand away.
“You do not get it, Brooke. They are waterproof! You can go swimming with your cochlear implants now!”
Bewilderment skipped across her face.

Nope, this was not going to work. I hungered to know the thoughts that were flashing through her young brain. What was holding her down? Why was she so petrified?

Eventually, I did get Brooke to have the courage to go into the water. Once she did, all that confusion was erased and replaced with contentment beyond words.

Some might argue that a hero must be someone older than them, but I do not accept this. A hero is someone that inspires, someone who others aspire to be like. A hero is a person who not only sparkles in the darkness, but they also allow others to share the light with them.

Brooke, I would say, is all of these things and so much more. I remember the day she received her cochlear implants. She was not embarrassed in the least bit. Her positive and pervasive attitude flooded the room.

Every time I see her, she has a fresh story to tell me- a far-out adventure to share. Her loving bear-hugs always produce a buoyant smile. Not only is Brooke a blessing, but she has made me count my blessings. We all anticipate the gift of hearing to be in arm’s reach. Now. Forever. Brooke has never heard the sound of my voice in the correct pitch. She never was able to hear the tiny droplets of water hitting a surface until the day she received her waterproof cochlear

implants.
Her whole world was laced with not being able to hear. Yet, this would not, and could not stop her. To this day, Brooke continues to astound her hearing teachers with her knowledge. Every time I feel down or want to give up, I remember her example. She gives me hope. She gives me joy. She helps me remember that even with imperfections, we can still shine.