Quote:
Originally Posted by ASLGAL
Books are good for reference.
Do not believe you can learn about d/Deaf Culture from a book or you will be thoroughly disappointed.
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Yup - they do however at least provide some general "norms" in a format which is most accessible to very new ASL students (that would be in printed/spoken English) who might not have someone locally who can teach them the basics one-on-one.
It's also important to read a wide range of books on culture - old and new, native Deaf, and those who enter the community later in life.
AquaBlue - I would encourage you to read lots of books, and then ask lots of questions of everyone here - that way you'll get a diverse perspective
Keep in mind that "norms" do change over time (especially the case with CI related issues- a prime example of the this is the outcome postfilming of the family in Sound and Fury)
Read lots, ask lots of questions ... and realise that when we offer correction we aren't attacking you - we're only trying to help. We understand the Deaf world in a way that you cannot, we take the time to type back because we want to help you learn and grow on this journey, not because we want to bash you down.
Of all the pearls of wisdom I can offer ... realise you will make mistakes, that we will from time to time correct these things - and be gracious, not defensive. We want to help ... but we can only do that if you will let us. You have commented to me personally things like "fat chance", "I don't think so" etc - I'd suggest that instead you say "please explain" - or "can you point me in the right direction" ... we want to help you. Seriously if I didn't want you to understand - I would never have bothered putting my PILES of homework on hold to reply to your questions.
Never stop asking questions ... just be accepting of the answers we offer
Blessings