The Language of Silence

I've always believed that our weaknesses are our biggest strengths in disguise. 

Handicapped. Impaired.

People who would use these words to describe those who can't hear, see, speak or think the way everyone else does- are clearly ignorant of the fact that no two humans are alike. Some are more different than others. These people are in no way disabled! They are 'differently-abled', making them special in a way no one can begin to comprehend.

My time at SKID was an eye opener to the various realities of mankind. They live in a world where silence is supreme but that doesn't stop them from trying their best to reach their full potential. I am in awe of their strength and optimism that puts millions of others to shame...From these children, I drew the kind of inspiration that made me want to inspire others.

Communication is a wonderful concept that is often misunderstood. It is not the means through which the message is delivered, but the message itself that is important. My first day at SKID was a little difficult because I did not know any sign language. As I stood in a classroom full of kids trying to converse with me through signs...I realized that I was the outsider, the odd one. It's as simple a comparison as going to a foreign country without knowing a word of the local language. That one little realization was enough to put everything into perspective. 

As the day progressed, the students and I met somewhere half way and we were able to say loads without saying much at all. That my friends, is the beauty of communication. I was amazed that they were able to read my lips and understand what I was saying. This got me thinking, if they can make the efforts to learn our language, what stops us from learning theirs? That was when it hit me. The reason that those who are not able to hear are not given equal opportunities is because there is a big communication gap. All of us make efforts to learn a new language so how is sign language any less significant than the others?! 

Languages are in no way barriers. They are simply bridges that need to be crossed in order to connect people on either side. Let us cross this bridge together.

Cherished in my heart forever.

Sneha & the kids.

          It was not long ago that I stepped into an eloquent world of warmth and love. The little alluring juvenile kids were far from what I had expected. I walked in unsure but walked out of SKID with the realisation that the world needs dreamers. But what the world needs most is dreamers who can do. We are the present. We make the future. 
          
          The children at SKID lacked hearing abilities but they could hear the unspoken words of of passion, behaviour and care. I was mesmerised by their radiant and ravishing fashion show that spoke of the attributes of old vendors on the street to money lenders and Chhota Bheem.  

          Chocolates, candy and sweets in abundance. Who wouldn't go for a second helping? Well, I didn't see even the slightest avaricious spark in one of them. 

          They were happy. They were content. They are a witty and talented lot. 

          I drew inspiration from them. My journey to discovery of the stupendous beauties of life began with the realisation that true joy didn't come from our possessions or the periods of good times in our life, but it merely comes from the feelings we nurture within ourselves. One can face raucous situations in their lives with a radiant attitude of positivity and self belief. One certainly does feel the true essence of life by abdicating the mortal attitude of negativity and instead embracing with open arms the feeling of love and passion. 

        They caused the pivotal transformation in my life and which is why I request you to light lamps in their lives and hearts because you DO count.

Love,
Sneha Bathija 
xx