ASTOUNDING PERFORMANCE

Your report on the surfer Derek Rabelo in the May issue moved and fascinated me in equal measure. I myself have been surfing for more than 20 years. Although I can see, it’s still a challenge for me to assess the ideal moment for the “takeoff” when the waves are big. The fact that Rabelo can do this perfectly without eyesight deserves the utmost respect. The article is also full of heartening takeaways in showing what’s possible despite obstacles and setbacks. Justin Barnwell, Escondido, CA

Derek’s story is truly inspirational, and we’re glad to have been able to share it. His accomplishments in surfing despite being blind since birth are beyond impressive, and everything he takes on in his life he does with the same kind of passion and dedication. So it behooves us to remember to keep things in perspective when it comes to the inevitable hurdles we all face in life: There will be times when we feel ill-equipped to deal with a situation, but the key is to not let circumstances be perceived as so daunting that they cannot be approached with conscientious planning, maneuvering, and heart.