My first ASL experience. (sorry it's lengthy)
So this week I went on a date with a guy who knows ASL. He's hearing but learned ASL as a kid. It dawned on me that this was the first time I'd ever seen sign language used in person and not via the internet. I thought it was cool, being hard of hearing and all, but didn't think much of it. That was until it started getting super loud in the restaurant when more people came. I even took out my HAs in a desperate attempt to hear less background noise and try to listen to him better. He knew I've been learning ASL so he started throwing in some signing as he spoke... And even though I don't know a ton of sign, seeing him use the little that I do know gave me SO MUCH RELIEF. I never honestly realized how helpful it could be for me, because it was never offered as an option. But I felt so much less stress when he started signing. This is why I think ASL and engagement in the Deaf community should be encouraged for HoH children/people. Yes, we can make due with the hearing we have. But we shouldn't have to. We should be given the chance to fully experience conversation and relationships even if it means we communicate by means other than speaking like "normal" people.
