Robert Beck

Hello, this is Nelson Olmsted. Today's story gives living testimony of the unculcable human spirit. Before I begin, let's join Clint Cooper, who has a message from Pacific Power. Welcome once again to Stories of Pacific Power Land, a presentation of Pacific Power and Light, the company that has been serving the electric needs of the region's homes, farms and industries

through more than half a century of progress and growth. Now here's Nelson with an inspiring page from the storybook of Pacific Power Land. A voice from somewhere said, Mr. Beck, can you hear me? Mr. Beck, if you hear me, blink your eyes. Mr. Beck?

Gradually the ultimate horror filtered into Robert Beck's foggy mind. He could hear, he could see, but he could not move. The automobile accident had left him paralyzed. The realization was devastating. How could he, a musician, live without the use of his hands?

Death was preferable, and perhaps death was not far away after all, fought Robert Beck, for a priest was standing near his bed. The priest said, My son, I must give you the courage to face God's will.

You have suffered a broken neck and considerable brain damage. The doctors do not believe you will walk or play the organ again. Agonizing weeks past, Robert Beck, unable to speak a move, discovered that his mind was clear.

He could recall the music he had played for so many years at the grotto of the sanctuary of our sorrowful mother in Porton, Oregon. He clung to this memory and it gave him strength. He could remember also the word of the 121st Psalm.

He recited them over and over in his mind, and they gave him determination. I will lift up my eyes under the hills from whence cometh my help, my help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.