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Ever wondered how do those enveloped in silence and darkness find the courage to embark on life's adventures?
Despite their handicaps, the visually, and hearing/speech impaired individuals defy expectations, navigating through challenges with unwavering determination and infectious cheerfulness.
A.G. Gardiner, in his timeless essay 'On the Cheerfulness of the Blind,' recounts the story of Mr. Joseph Pulitzer, Proprietor of New York World & founder of Columbia School of Journalism, who, amidst the breathtaking beauty of a Mediterranean sunset, embraced his sudden blindness with remarkable composure. This resilience extends beyond the realm of sight, as the deaf and mute find solace in the language of signs, sharing jokes and laughter in their unique world of communication.
Many moons ago, I once witnessed, on the Churchgate railway station, a group of these remarkable individuals, regularly gathering at dusk, exchanging stories and laughter before dispersing to their respective destinations. Two visually impaired members would not miss any because they had a friend who would provide a running commentary of the happenings. Their camaraderie and zest for life serve as a poignant reminder of the power of resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.
I would then miss many a train until I saw them getting onto their train to continue their conversation, before reaching their respective destination.
It would be wrong to say that while the visually impaired can have delightful conversations, the speech and hearing impaired would get lost in observing the hand or lip movements. In either case, when in conversation, they still capture every opportunity to smile, laugh and share a word or expression and be happy.
The ever evolving technology is employing talents, engaging with those who struggle to be in the mainstream of life. The tools such as screen readers, speech-to-text, voice notes and other AI supported models are noteworthy.
In the symphony of life, where some may falter at the absence of sight or sound, these individuals paint their canvas of joy and adventure, scaling mountains and pedalling bicycles or driving cars with the aid of companionship and determination.
Their journey teaches us an invaluable lesson: True happiness transcends limitations, and the human spirit knows no bounds in its pursuit of life's myriad pleasures.
Cheers!
If my stories resonate with you,
Only the other day, as I was standing on the footpath, waiting for a friend of mine, I saw a young man walked passed by, holding a smart phone and gesticulating on the screen. I realised after a fraction of a second that he was deaf and mute, talking to his friend. In a civilisation, where we are more accustomed to keep a deadpan face by hiding our facial emotions, it was a refrshing sight.
Very true.