From: cclark@NRI.RESTON.VA.US (Cynthia Clark)
Newsgroups: bit.listserv.deaf-l
Subject: Re: thinking about handicaps
Date: 14 Oct 92 20:24:56 GMT
Comments: Gated by NETNEWS@AUVM.AMERICAN.EDU
              13 Oct 92 15:22:00 PDT." <9210131835.aa20947@NRI.Reston.VA.US>

In spite of my deafness, let me become the "mediator"
to assist and clear up misunderstanding between the hearing
and deaf worlds.  I support both worlds.

I have been observing these remarks regarding
the word "handicap".  Let me give an award to
Bryce Carey who did give the best definition.
He obviously had a great sense of humor.  I am
tempted to play golf with him someday.  He is
NOT wrong.  Other hearing people in the DEAFLIST
are not wrong neither.  That "dumb woman" was not
stupid.  She simply did not have enough exposure
to the deaf world.

However, deaf people do have feelings.  Therefore,
feelings are NOT wrong.  Of course, I simply do
NOT like these words "handicapped" nor "hearing impaired"
That's why I understand the deaf people's perspective.
I happen to be born-deaf.  I happen to come from a deaf family.
Let me give an award to the deaf community for
being downright honest with feelings.

In my own personal opinion,  "Handicap" is NOT really a big deal
because it is my understanding that these hearing people
do NOT intend to insult us.  It is a different story if
a hearing person gives you a dirty look "you are so handicapped".
Is it a different ballpark ?   It is just the context
like what Vicki Brown mentioned earlier.

In the future, if a hearing person mentioned "Handicapped"
then, there is no need to get upset anymore because it showed that
this person obviously did not have enough exposure to the
deaf world. Period.  No big deal.  Whoopee.  Let me "circle
my first finger" around in a sign language.

Being deaf is no big deal.

Being handicapped is no big deal.

I hope both of my worlds begin to understand each other better.

What's the real purpose of life, by the way ?  If you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to ask - rather than to
jump into conclusions.  Any comments ?

Smile,

Have a great day !!

Cynthia

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[                                                                         ]
[ Cynthia Clark,  Technical Assistant                                     ]
[ Corporation for National Research Initiatives  (CNRI)                   ]
[ Reston, VA  22091                                                       ]
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[ TTY: 703-758-5912                                                       ]
[ Email:  cclark@nri.reston.va.us                                         ]
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