Stevie Wonder

 "Do not underestimate the determination of a quiet man" (Smith). Those who have faced more challenges in life are often more determined to do something astounding. Stevland Hardaway Morris, more commonly known for his stage name, Stevie Wonder, was born on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan. Due to a shortage of oxygen in his incubator, he was born blind. Despite this major setback, Stevie Wonder went on to become a musical prodigy. Over the years his career has sky-rocketed and he became one of the most popular American musical artists. A true hero possesses compassionate and selfless qualities that inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Stevie Wonder is an inspiration for more than his musical talents: His determination, optimism, and ability to overcome adversity makes him the hero he is today.

Stevie Wonder is considered a hero to many because of his determination. With the support of his family, "...Wonder was a musical prodigy by the age of nine, proficient on piano, drums, and harmonica" (Freeland). He taught himself how to play music with a Braille book because his parents could not afford an instructor. It is a major accomplishment for a blind person to perform and inspire thousands of people with his music. Although Wonder is successful, his life is far from perfect: "Wonder's momentum was almost stopped permanently by a 1973 automobile accident that nearly claimed his life and left him with deep facial scars. If anything, however, this event provoked him to redouble his efforts" ("Wonder, Stevie (1950-)."). Stevie Wonder's determination helped him accomplish incredible things. Despite some major setbacks, Stevie Wonder went on to become one of the most inspiring musical artists known today.

Wonder's consistent positive attitude is another aspect to his success. His bright personality shined when, as a child, "...he soothed his mother's tears by telling her that he "wasn't sad" ("Wonder, Stevie (1950)."). Despite some unfortunate events that occurred in his life, Wonder remained positive and taught himself to do what he loved best. His encouraging attitude allowed him to pursue his successful career. Wonder's optimism and positivity helped him throughout the years: "In the 1970s Wonder took stronger control of his music and career, releasing a series of innovative, deeply personal albums that touched on themes of racism, inner-city despair, and spirituality" (Freeland). Staying positive can be a challenge, but Wonder took this challenge head-on. He focused on all the things he could accomplish instead of the things he could not. Without a positive attitude, Wonder would not be as successful as he is now.

What sets Wonder apart is his ability to overcome adversity. Wonder's life took a whole different course when he, "--was blinded by a surfeit of oxygen in his incubator shortly after his premature birth" ("Wonder, Stevie (1950-)."). Although obstacles may be discouraging, Stevie Wonder had the strength to overcome them. The challenges he has faced in life have made him the kind and positive person he is today. All hope seemed lost for Stevie Wonder and his family when,"His father left the family early on, and he and his five siblings were raised by their mother; she moved the clan to Detroit, where they struggled mightily to survive" ("Wonder, Stevie (1950-)."). Many would run away from the face of adversity, but Stevie Wonder decided to make the best of it. No matter how tough things got, nothing could cause him to give up. He took the challenges thrown at him and turned them into opportunities.

           Guided by determination, optimism, and his ability to overcome adversity, Stevie Wonder has touched the hearts of many with his inspirational journey. His disability does not define him; his positivity and ability to overcome it makes him the hero he is now. Through many challenges in his life, he persevered and became successful. He is an inspiration because he showed the world that you don't have to be perfect to become an artist. A true hero is someone who never gives up and aspires to be the best. Stevie Wonder is a true hero.