Deaf Culture: An Understanding

I have a friend who is an interpreter for the deaf and this poem was inspired by all that she does :).

I see your legs shifting

side to side,

hands in pockets,

face turned from me.

 

I only looked at you,

as any other curious pedestrian

on a busy street.

My eyes wandering

as I just so happened

to see you.

 

You asked if I knew

what street this was…

I pointed to my mouth

and the street sign above.

 

Your face turned crimson as

fear attacked you.

Placed in

unfamiliar territory,

lost in translation.

 

What reason is there

to be afraid?

I’ll understand

if you give me a try.

 

I may not speak

or hear as well

as you prefer,

but I see.

 

Give me a chance and I promise you,

I’ll understand these words

that form from your lips.

 

Don’t scream at me

with your eyes aflame.

Settle down,

let’s talk.

 

 

Give me your hands.

Give me your fingers.

 

There are words

you can show me.

All you have to do

is try.