🤟 A Glimpse Into My Deaf Life: Breaking Barriers with Faith & Perspective

Recently, I returned home from Texas after attending the DeafNation Expo—an event that brings together organizations and businesses, many of them led by Deaf individuals. I've had the opportunity to visit these expos across the country, and every time, I walk away inspired. I enjoy discovering new products and services, but even more, I value reconnecting with old friends and meeting new people who share similar life experiences.

One thing that always stands out is this: many of us in the Deaf community continue to face barriers—past and present. During the expo, I attended several presentations about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. These sessions focused on our rights and how we can advocate for equal access, especially in communication and employment.

Rather than listing every challenge I've faced, I'll share just one example.

There have been times when I applied for a job and was required to take an exam—but was denied an ASL interpreter. As a result, I failed. Unfortunately, this situation is not uncommon for Deaf individuals. In my case, it even led to legal action and a settlement. Yet, despite outcomes like that, barriers still exist.

After the expo, I found myself reflecting on these experiences. Instead of holding onto frustration, I've chosen a different path: letting go, learning from the past, and focusing on growth. I want to share positivity, encourage others, and continue moving forward.

My Deaf Journey Is My Own

I've also learned that there is no single way to be a Deaf person.

I was born Deaf, grew up in a predominantly hearing family, and attended mainstream schools rather than an all-Deaf institution. My experiences have shaped me differently from others, just as every Deaf person's life has been shaped by their own family, education, communication, culture, and experiences.

I am Deaf, and I am proud of who I am. But I don't need to prove that I am more Deaf than someone else. I don't need to compare Deaf and hearing people. I don't need to compete over who has the better education, upbringing, signing ability, or life experience.

I respect the many different journeys within the Deaf community, including people who grew up in Deaf families, attended Deaf schools, were mainstreamed, use ASL, speak, or communicate in other ways. Our experiences are different—but different does not have to mean better or worse.

I've seen how easy it can be for people to become caught up in comparisons, arguments, criticism, or the need to prove themselves. For me, that isn't how I want to live. I don't need to win every debate or seek approval from others to know who I am.

I still appreciate hearing people who genuinely want to learn ASL and communicate. I don't see communication as a battle between Deaf and hearing people. I see it as an opportunity to learn from one another and build better connections.

Faith Gives Me Perspective

As a Christian, my faith plays a big role in how I view life. I choose to remain calm, grateful, and joyful for the life God has given me. My faith reminds me that my worth does not come from proving myself to other people. I don't have to compare my journey with someone else's.

Through reading the Bible, I've gained a deeper sense of hope. I believe in a future—one designed by our Heavenly Father—where brokenness no longer exists.

In that new life, I imagine being able to hear like my family. Right now, I am the only Deaf person in my family, and we communicate through signing, texting, and flexibility on both sides. That flexibility has become a strength. Still, I look forward to a future where communication is effortless.

I understand that not all Deaf individuals share this perspective—and I respect that. Each person has their own experiences, beliefs, and identity. But for me, faith provides peace and helps me navigate the barriers I face in this world.

Because the truth is, we are all living in an imperfect world. Challenges will come and go. But they are temporary.

I don't know what tomorrow will bring. None of us do. That is one reason I want to keep learning, growing, encouraging others, and doing good whenever I can. I would rather move forward with peace than spend my life carrying anger or trying to prove that I am better than someone else.

Finding Humor and Building Bridges

Before I close, I'll leave you with a bit of humor from everyday life.

Sometimes a hearing person will ask me:

“Can you read lips?”

I'll respond:

“Can you sign ASL?”

They usually say no.

I smile and say:

“Then we have the same answer.” 😉

Another common moment:

“I'm sorry, I don't know sign language,” they say.

I reply:

“I'm sorry, I don't know how to voice and read lips.”

We both laugh—and just like that, a barrier becomes a bridge.

That's a small glimpse into my Deaf life.

As we recognize Deaf Awareness Month this September, I hope stories like mine help educate, connect, and inspire others. Awareness leads to understanding—and understanding can lead to change.

This is my journey. Your journey is yours. I wish you well as I continue walking mine.

And as for me, I'll keep walking through life with purpose—growing, learning, reflecting, and trusting God to guide me along the way.

Growth • Reflections • Faith