February 1975 witnessed a horrible and a tragic accident, the crashing of an underground train against a stone wall at Moorgate Station, London, killing 41 people. This accident had injured a 19-year-old policewoman named Margaret. She found herself sitting on the floor with one of her legs under her body and a man on top of her. Neither could move without hurting the other. In the darkness and the stench of all the other dead bodies surrounding them, she decided to help the man get up.
“You are very brave,” the man said. “I have to be,” she answered. “I am a police-woman.” The firemen who reached the spot a little late tried to pull them out, but Margaret’s left leg was trapped under the huge steel girder. By the time they reached the hospital, Margaret had lost a lot of blood, and the doctors suggested that it was best they amputate her leg, and so, her left foot was amputated. Everyone who knew her was horrified and pitied her fate.
QUESTIONS
- What did she do further?
- What is the implication of this story?
ANSWERS
- She marvelled everyone around with her ability to laugh and tell jokes despite the tragedy. Within two days, she was sitting up in the hospital, chatting cheerfully with the visitors. Her courage received a lot of appreciation the world over. More than all the gifts and cards, she won everyone’s hearts as well!
- Fear lies in mind. True courage comes from looking fear in the eye, bravely. Margaret inspired many people around the world and became a true trendsetter. She could have sat down and cursed her destiny, but she didn’t do so. Her story is a lesson for all those who think their life is miserable and helpless.
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