Do You Speak Sign Language?
Non-stop Non Talking
I admit, I was distracted by the conversation taking place in the car behind me yesterday. So much so, that I didn't notice the stoplight had turned green. The two women were non-stop talking - but not on a cell phone. They were animatedly discussing something with their hands and I was amazed just watching their fingers fly.
The conversation didn't prevent either of them from noticing that I failed to move my vehicle when the light changed. They both began pointing at me and I heard the horn beeping and noticed the light changed. But before I could move the car, it turned yellow and I froze. Then, I proceeded to join in their conversation by pointing to my head and making circular signals as if to say, "I'm sorry, I'm crazy today!"
The women laughed and gave me the "It's okay" sign, realizing that I didn't know how to properly speak Sign Language.
According to the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), at least 26 countries do not allow deaf citizens to hold a driver's license. Further information on deaf people estimates that there are 70 million deaf people and 80 % of the world population of the deaf children do not have access to education. It's a sad statistic at a time when going back to school is on everyone's agenda.
When you are considering learning a new language, consider learning to speak sign language. There is always a need for interpreters at local venues, churches, synagogues and public hearings. This could be a done as a volunteer service or a new employment opportunity while you bring a worthy service to a sector of the population.
And, the next time you are sitting at a stoplight, I encourage you to look around. You just never know the animation that is taking place in the vehicles surrounding you.
They may be speaking sign language about you.
Sources:
http://www.wfdeaf.org
Published by Michele Starkey
Optimist who enjoys writing, laughing and spreading good news. If I have but one life to live, I hope to make mine memorable. My epitaph will read: she lived, she loved, she left. View profile
- What's the Best Way to Learn Sign Language?Learning sign language appears challenging at first but you'll soon see that starting out was the most difficult part. There are quite a few who believe that learning to sign is much easier than learning another spoke...
- A Guide to Teach Yourself Sign LanguageThis is a guide to help you learn sign language using any sign language book that you buy or borrow.
- Learning American Sign Language Online for FREEHave you ever met someone who could communicate in sign language or someone who could only speak through signs? Well now there's a free online resource that will allow you to learn it easily.
- Communicate with Your Baby Using Sign LanguageBaby sign language is very easy to learn and teach your baby. You have the option of using American Sign Language (ASL) signs or making up ones of your own.
Video Phones Bring Deaf People into the MillenniumAn explaination of the video phone and how it works and is changing the lives of Deaf people.
- Benefits of Sign Language for Children
- How to Teach Your Dog Sign Language
- How to Learn American Sign Language-When I Can't Find Classes
- Extraordinary Benefits of Teaching Your Baby Sign Language
- Learning American Sign Language
- Using a Sign Language Interpreter
- Communicate With Your Baby Through Sign Language
48 Comments
Post a CommentI plan to teach my youngest daughter sign language next year.
Thanks, I love this article. I always wanted to learn, I try to pick up pieces of sign when someone I know can teach me, but it's a skill you need to use regularly to remember.
Excellent article as always. Thanks!
Excellent article as always. Thanks!
Excellent work, Michele! :-) Bless you!
Would love to learn. Yet, not sure if my arthritis would allow it.
Great article Michele! I was happy when my kids came home telling me that they were learning basic sign language at school. It is a great thing to know :)
I wish I could get my husband to learn sign language! Maybe someday! He is very hard of hearing and refuses to wear his hearing aide. He has had an extreme hearing problem that was discovered at the age of four. He also has hearing distortion. Thanks for the delightful article!
Sign language would be great to learn!
There is a School for the Deaf in our area, so many people 'signing' in our city.