Life Unheard: A Deaf Journey  

Hello! My name is Waseema, and I’m proud to be Deaf. I speak a little, but not very clearly, and I gesture too. I decided to write this blog because many people still don’t understand what it really means to be Deaf — it’s not just about not hearing; it’s about culture, language, and identity. I hope my story helps you see the world through my eyes and inspires you to learn more about Deaf culture.

 Raising Awareness About Deaf Culture and Community 

If you’re not already raising awareness about Deaf culture and community, I hope my story inspires you to learn, share, and support us. Keep smiling and spreading love — we are all connected.

 What It’s Like to Be a Deaf Person 

When people hear the word "deaf," they usually think it just means someone can’t hear. But being Deaf is about much more than not hearing sounds — it’s a whole community, a culture, and a different way of living and communicating.

 Deaf People Aren’t Broken 

Some people think being Deaf is just a “disability” or that Deaf people always want to be “fixed.” But many Deaf people are proud to be Deaf! They have their own sign languages, like American Sign Language (ASL) or British Sign Language (BSL). For lots of Deaf people, sign language is their first language — just like some people grow up speaking English or Spanish at home.

 Challenges Deaf People Face 

Deaf people face challenges every day. Some places don’t have captions or interpreters. Sometimes teachers or classmates forget to include Deaf students in conversations. It can feel lonely if people talk about a Deaf person instead of to them. That’s why it’s so important to make schools, events, and videos accessible to everyone — so Deaf people don’t miss out.

 How Deaf People Communicate 

Deaf people communicate in many ways. Many use sign language. Some read lips, write notes, or talk using their voice. Technology helps too — things like captions on videos, flashing doorbells, or video calls with sign language interpreters.

The most important thing is respect. If you meet someone who is Deaf, be patient, face them when you talk, and ask how they prefer to communicate.

 IMPORTANT:   

• Face them when you talk. Don’t cover your mouth or turn away.
• Don’t shout. Just speak normally and clearly.
• 
  
•  Don’t Scare us or Judge us:  
• People sometimes shout at me, thinking it helps. It doesn’t — it’s scary. Deaf people don’t like shouting, mean jokes, gossip, or being ignored.

 Love Without Words 

For someone who is Deaf, love isn’t about saying words out loud. It’s about showing how you feel. A big hug, a happy smile, or looking into someone’s eyes can say “I love you” louder than any voice. Many Deaf people use sign language, where their hands move like a dance to share feelings. Imagine two friends signing “You’re awesome!” while laughing together — that’s love!

Deaf people show love to their family, friends, or even their pets by doing kind things, like helping with homework or playing together. It’s all about caring and making each other feel special, no matter how you talk.

 Being Super Cool 

Some people think being Deaf is tough, but Deaf people show it’s just a different way to be perfect. They use sign language, read lips, or sometimes wear hearing aids to talk with others. They have fun at Deaf schools or clubs, making friends who understand them. Deaf people teach us that love and beauty don’t need sound. A silly signed joke, a colorful painting, or a warm hug can light up your day. They help us see the world in a new, exciting way.

Why It Matters 

Deaf people remind us that love and beauty are everywhere, even in silence. They feel love in a warm smile and see beauty in a bright flower. We can learn from them to be kind, notice the world, and share joy in our own way. Next time you see someone signing or notice a beautiful moment, think about how Deaf people experience it. Their way of loving and seeing beauty makes the world even more awesome!

 When It Hurts: Avoiding a Deaf Person 

It can feel really painful when someone avoids a Deaf person just because they communicate differently. Being ignored or left out hurts, and it’s important to understand why this happens and how we can make things better. Let’s talk about it in a way that middle schoolers can understand.

 Why Avoiding Hurts 

Imagine you’re trying to join a game at recess, but everyone walks away because you talk with your hands instead of your voice. That would feel awful, right? For a Deaf person, being avoided can make them feel lonely or like they don’t belong. Deaf people are just like everyone else — they want to make friends, share jokes, and feel included. When someone ignores them or acts like they’re too different, it can hurt their heart.

Sometimes people avoid Deaf kids because they don’t know how to talk to them. They might feel nervous about using sign language or think it’s too hard to understand each other. But avoiding someone doesn’t fix that — it just makes the Deaf person feel left out.

When someone avoids them, it’s not because they did anything wrong — it’s usually because the other person doesn’t understand Deafness. But that doesn’t make the hurt go away. It can feel like being picked last for a team or not being invited to a party. 

For example, imagine a Deaf kid named Asif who loves soccer. If the other kids don’t ask Asif to play because they’re unsure how to talk to him, Asif might feel sad and stop trying to join in. That’s not fair, and it’s not fun for anyone.

    How to Be a Friend Instead     

The good news? You can make a big difference! Here are some ways to include a Deaf person instead of avoiding them:

• Learn a little sign language: Even learning simple signs like “hi,” “friend,” or “play” can show you care. It’s like learning a new game — it’s fun and gets easier with practice!
• Be patient: If you don’t understand each other at first, keep trying. Use gestures, write notes, or draw pictures to share ideas.
• Smile and include them: Invite a Deaf person to join your group, whether it’s for lunch, a game, or a class project. A smile says, “You’re welcome here!”
• Ask questions: If you’re curious about how they communicate, ask kindly. Most Deaf people are happy to share if you’re friendly.

 Why It Matters 

Avoiding a Deaf person doesn’t just hurt their feelings — it means missing out on a great friend. Deaf people have cool stories, awesome talents, and big hearts. When we include them, we learn new things, like how to sign a funny joke or see the world in a different way. Everyone wants to feel liked and included. By being kind and open, you can make sure a Deaf person feels like they belong. It’s way better to be a friend than to make someone feel left out.

 Let’s Make It Better 

If you see a Deaf person being avoided, stand up for them. Invite them to hang out, learn a sign, or just wave hello. Those little things can turn a hurtful moment into a happy one. Let’s show Deaf people they’re awesome and wanted, just the way they are!

 When People Act Mean to a Deaf Person 

When people act mean to a Deaf person, it hurts when they know someone is Deaf but still act mean by talking super fast or pretending they don’t understand. This kind of behavior can make a Deaf person feel left out, especially by family.

 Why It Hurts 

Imagine hanging out with your cousins, ready for fun. You’re Deaf, so you use sign language or other ways to talk. But your cousins talk really fast on purpose, laugh, or act like they’re better because they use their voices. Maybe they pretend they can’t understand your signs. That feels terrible! It’s like being left out of a game or ignored at a family party. When cousins act this way, it can make a Deaf person feel sad or like they don’t fit in. Family should be kind and make you feel included, but acting mean or showing off hurts a lot.

 What It Feels Like 

When cousins know this but act arrogant anyway, it’s like they’re saying the Deaf person’s way isn’t good enough. It can make them feel embarrassed or lonely, even at a fun family event. 

For example, imagine a kid named Sam at a family barbecue. His cousins know he’s Deaf, but they talk super fast about a video game and ignore his signs to slow down. They might even laugh and pretend they don’t get what he’s saying. Sam feels left out and wishes his cousins would just be nice.

  Why Do They Act Like That  

Sometimes cousins act mean because they don’t really understand what it’s like to be Deaf. They might think talking fast or pretending is a joke, not knowing it hurts. Or maybe they’re shy about signing and act cool to hide it. But that doesn’t make it okay — it’s still not fair.

 Why Family Should Be Nice 

Family is supposed to make everyone feel loved, Deaf or not. When cousins act mean, it hurts everyone, not just the Deaf person. But when you include each other, family time is the best! Try learning a sign, sharing a joke, or playing together. It shows your cousin they’re important. Let’s make family hangouts fun for everyone. Be kind, include your Deaf cousin, and show them they belong. A little kindness goes a long way!

  Please Don’t Hate Her Because She’s Deaf  

What hurts the most is when that misunderstanding turns into hate — subtle or obvious. When someone thinks it’s easier to blame her for not hearing than to learn how to communicate. When they act like her Deafness is an inconvenience, a weakness, or a mistake she somehow chose.

But she didn’t choose this. And she doesn’t need pity — she needs respect. She doesn’t need your frustration — she needs your patience. She doesn’t need to be “fixed” — she needs to be loved, as she is.

So please, if you know someone who is Deaf — whether it’s your spouse, your friend, your child, or a stranger — don’t hate them for something that is not a fault. Be kind. Be patient. Take the time to learn a few signs, write it down, gesture, laugh through the awkwardness. Be human with them.

Don’t hate her because she’s Deaf. It hurts more than you know. Love her, stand with her, listen to her — in every way you can. That’s how you make this world less lonely for people like her.

 Understanding Deafness 

Sometimes people don’t understand what it’s like to be Deaf. My friend (or wife, sister, or someone I care about) can’t hear like other people do, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t smart, funny, or kind.

It hurts when some people don’t want to be her friend or like her just because she’s Deaf. They think it’s too hard to talk to her or they don’t want to learn how to help. That makes her feel left out and lonely, and it makes me really sad too.

She is just like everyone else. She has feelings, dreams, and so much love to give. She wants friends and people who care about her. She wishes people would try to understand her world — maybe learn a few signs, write things down, or just be patient when it’s hard to communicate.

If you ever meet someone who is Deaf, please don’t ignore them. Be kind. Be patient. Smile, write things down, or learn a few signs — even just “hello” or “thank you.” Small things make a big difference.

People who are Deaf are not broken. They are brave and strong. They can teach you new things if you just listen in a different way.

So please, don’t hurt someone by staying away just because they’re Deaf. Be a friend. You might find someone amazing.

  Respect Deaf People’s Marriage  

Some people do not accept when a hearing person marries a Deaf person. They think it will not work. This is wrong. Deaf people can love and build a happy family.

Please respect Deaf people’s choice to marry who they love. Do not gossip. Do not judge. Celebrate their love like you celebrate anyone’s love.

  Deaf and Mute VS Hearing Loss  

If someone can’t speak and can’t hear, that’s often called Deafness with mutism (or being Deaf and mute). It means they can’t hear sounds and also don’t use spoken language to communicate. Instead, they might use sign language, gestures, writing, or other ways to express themselves. This is common in some Deaf individuals, especially if they were born Deaf or became Deaf before learning to speak.

If someone can speak but can’t hear, that’s just Deafness (or sometimes called hearing loss). They can’t hear sounds but have learned to use their voice to communicate. This might happen if they became Deaf later in life after learning to speak or if they’ve had speech training. They might also use sign language, lip-reading, or other tools to understand others.

  For example:  

A kid who can’t hear or speak might sign “I love you” with their hands.

A kid who can’t hear but can speak might say words out loud and read lips to follow a conversation.

  How to Talk to a Deaf Person  

Many people don’t know how to talk to a Deaf person. Some people feel shy or scared they will make a mistake. That’s okay — but it’s important to learn. A Deaf person is the same as everyone else. They have feelings, dreams, and hopes. They want respect and kindness, not pity.

 Tips for Communication: 

• Look at them: Face them when you talk.
• Get their attention: Gently wave or tap their shoulder.
• Speak clearly: Don’t shout. Don’t cover your mouth.
• Use your hands: Point, gesture, write, or type on your phone if needed.
• Be patient: If they don’t understand, say it again or write it down.

 Remember it  

Deaf people are strong. They can do many things — work, art, study, travel, play sports, have families. They just cannot hear, or hear differently. Treat a Deaf person with respect and love. Learn to communicate. Be kind.

  Blog Post  

 Title : I’m Deaf, Not Foolish: My Life and Deaf Culture

 Introduction : I am Deaf. I speak a little. People think I’m foolish because I can’t hear. But I’m not. I have talents — art, cooking, caring for my pet. Someone rejected my marriage proposal, saying, “It won’t work.” That hurt. I’m writing this to show Deaf people are capable and proud. Deaf culture is beautiful, and I want you to know it.

 My Talents : I love painting. My colors tell stories words can’t. I cook spicy curry that my friends love. My pet understands me without words — I use my hands to talk to him. Deaf people have talents like these. We’re artists, chefs, teachers, and more.

 Deaf Culture Is Amazing : Deaf culture is my home. We use sign language, not just hands waving — it’s a real language. We have festivals, jokes, and events. I’m proud to be Deaf. It’s not about “can’t hear.” It’s about who we are.

 Stop the Stereotypes : People say, “Deaf people can’t do this or that.” Wrong. We can do anything except hear. When someone rejected me, they saw my Deafness, not my heart. Please don’t judge us. Learn a sign, like “hello.” Watch a movie with captions. See us as people.

 Conclusion : I want a world where Deafness isn’t a “no” to love or dreams. Deaf people are talented, strong, and proud. Learn about our culture. Try one sign today. Deafness doesn’t stop us. It makes us unique.

I won’t stop believing in love or myself. I hope you’ll learn about Deaf culture and see us for who we are.

Being Deaf isn’t just about silence. It’s about a community, a culture, and a different way of connecting. If you really want to understand Deaf people, listen — not with your ears, but with your heart.

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