Soul Surfer Research Paper

“The water was crystal-clear and calm. The waves were small and inconsistent, and I was just kind of rolling with them, relaxing on my board with my right hand on the nose of the board and my left arm dangling in the cool water.” She writes in her book ‘Soul Surfer’. “I remember thinking, ‘I hope the surf picks up soon…’ when suddenly there was a flash of gray.” Bethany Hamilton’s life changed forever Halloween morning of 2003. The picture perfect morning was put to a halt when a fourteen foot tiger shark severed Bethany’s arm below her shoulder. At just thirteen years old, her dreams of becoming a professional surfer were seemed to be ripped from her grasp. Bethany pushed through her hard times with her strong, resilient ambition to do what

We have those obstacles that seem too large to overcome or that current that you never seem to swim out of. We have to decide what matters most to us - our passions.” Bethany saw the loss of her arm as a reason to work harder to achieve her goals as a professional surfer. Her passion for the sport she loves carried her to success. Since the accident, she has participated in many world-class surf competitions, her bravery and passion in the face of adversity has inspired millions. Bethany says it was amazing to win the Women's Explorer division of the 2005 NSSA National Championships, which was her first national title. She never thought she would be able to achieve that goal and that much success. Hamilton says she’s thankful she’s been able to live out her dreams. She’s learned so much from traveling the world doing what she loves. Surprisingly, people doubted Bethany’s commitment to the sport, after changes and dedication, she proved those doubters wrong. “Surfing for me is more than my lifestyle; it’s my passion, my life and it’s a part of me.” The bravery in her heart consumed her fear as she continued to pursue her passion, and she would not let measly sharks stand in the way of that. Although the prospect was daunting, when she was asked if she had any fears of surfing now, she simply replied with “I don't feel differently about the water, but I think of sharks more often.” Bethany doesn’t let this incident control her life, because the alternative of living in fear is a life nobody would ever wish to live. She leaves her worries behind her when she enters the water. Hamilton’s dedication and love towards surfing has helped her to become the strong and admirable figure she