Gray "The Little Engine That Could"

Grayson Rest before 8th Brain Surgery
 Sketch by a.Siqueiros 4/20/2011

THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD

 

 

as Grayson, The Little Engine That Could.

When we talk about greatness usually we think of leaders in history who have conquered territories, men who have revolutionized systems, or, individuals who have made important discoveries in science. History is full of "Great" individuals, such as Alexander The Great, Peter The Great, Cyrus The Great and Albert The Great (Albertus Magnus). But, what constitutes "Greatness"? In my humble opinion to earn "Greatness" one must be on a mission which requires strength and determination above and beyond the individual's capabilities. One such person is an eleven year old boy amongst us who is not equal to any of the historical personalities mentioned above, and yet, his achievements and dreams make him deserve the title "Great" amongst his peers. His name is Grayson.

 

Who doesn't know Grayson Arroyo-Smiley, the little boy who greets you with enthusiasm, and tries to cheer you up with words of encouragement? After enduring seven painful surgeries, chemotherapies, and various life threatening treatments Grayson has found the purpose for his sufferings: Saving other children's lives. How can an eleven year old boy, who doesn't have the vast capabilities/knowledge of scientists nor the power of the "Great" leaders, achieve such a dream? Grayson's only weapons are his passion and charisma.

 

Pediatric cancer is one of the least explored diseases among several others. Scientists' attention has mostly focused on cure for adult cancer. In order to bring awareness to childrens' sufferings Grayson's first step was to establish a charity. The Amazing Gray Fund through The Talbert Family Foundation. Then, he started spreading the news about the need for funds, and bringing much needed attention for exclusive research on pediatric cancer. He has visited his fourth grade classmates in different classrooms and explained in detail the nature of cancer. He has talked about his surgeries and about other children who go through this painful ordeal. He has brought to his peers' attention that one way to fight this terrible illness is participation. Students not only listened him but also learned the art of giving. They realized that if they strongly believe for a cause then they should support it with their pocket money rather than good wishes and sympathies. While donations came from students' hearts their love and support for Grayson increased. They didn't settle for less than what they could do. Instead, the students gave their best and in return they received the best, which was the big idea of "Together we are powerful enough to change the world."

 

One day, when newspapers announce that a cure for pediatric cancer has been found all those students who were cheering Grayson will proudly tell to their own children they were instrumental in making a difference by participating in search for cure. They will tell their children that no matter how small they are - they are as powerful as Caesar to make changes in the world. Supporting a good cause, fighting for a better life and winning the battle is power.

 

In history the title "Great" is reserved for rulers. But, "Greatness" doesn't belong exclusively to those who conquer and rule, it doesn't have size, age or class. "Greatness" may be found in our littlest ones as well, such as Grayson, The Little Engine That Could.