Writing Your Rhythm

There is always more than meets the ears, and Mandy Harvey is no exception to the rule. Golden buzzer winner, inspiring figure, and hearing-impaired artist, Mandy Harvey shared her musical talents with the world on America’s Got Talent 2017. As a young singer, Mandy faced many challenges due to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which caused her to lose residual hearing at the age of nineteen. Many might believe that she would give up on music at this point, but Mandy was forced to live her life to a different beat. She worked hard for many years to perfect her singing and the rhythm of vibration beneath her feet to eventually become not only a 4th place winner on America’s Got Talent 2017, but also a Golden Buzzer winner — where she was guaranteed a spot in the live-semi finals.

Our school was given the chance to see and hear Mandy first-hand last Wednesday. Many did not know what to expect, or what she was all about but were inspired to hear a phenomenal artist and songwriter, who is an incredible example of overcoming fears and obstacles. Without her never-ending love for music and passion for life, Mandy would never have the chance to be where she is today. While some may see her appearance here as a simple entertainment opportunity, or a chance to get out of class, the meaning goes so much deeper.

Many people forget to ask themselves about meaning. What is the meaning behind your goals and passions? Are they simply within reach and guaranteed to be met? Or are they dreams that you’re going to have to work for, through many tears, laughter, and some failures? Everyone determines their own path, and some may be longer and wind than others, but they are each significant. Life is full of twists and turns that will push you 2 steps back when you’ve just gotten one foot forward. When you feel like giving up, look to people like Mandy for inspiration. We constantly hear success stories of people who have fought to the top despite their struggles or what their life entails, but we’ve never been closer to someone like Mandy until now.

Take the chills that danced down your spine after each high note that she perfected, or the goosebumps that crept up from your skin after hearing her story to push you closer into the cloud of your dreams and reality. Her presence in this school was not only heard but also felt throughout each person in the crowd of kids ages 13 to 18. Think back to how you felt throughout that performance, and know that could be you. Use your passions and positive energy for the things you love in life, instead of wasting it away while waiting for your dreams to come true on their own. So, I encourage you to take this day as a fresh start and a new opportunity to change your life into what you dream for it to be.

“I don't feel the way I used to

The sky is grey much more than it is blue

But I know one day I'll get through

And I'll take my place again”

-Mandy Harvey, Try

Even if it is challenging, even if you fail, we want to see you try.

-Karlee Volrath