Steve and I make our way into the Bishop’s Storehouse and are greeted by smiling and friendly faces. I converse with the receptionist while Steve watches. I know he wants to know what we are saying, but it is nearly impossible for me to talk to someone and interpret for him at the same time. Some people are able to do that. I am not. That is why I prefer to pretend that I am deaf, so that people will communicate with both of us by writing. He does not always prefer that, however.
I look at him. The smiles and friendly conversation are overshadowed by the look on his face. Already, my brain cannot remember most of what this lady has said to me. I manage to sign “chicken turkey which?”
We make our way through the store and I am gathering fruit and vegetables while Steve is gathering other items in another part of the store. As I weigh the produce, certain recent events and other challenges weigh heavily on my mind. I hear Steve tell someone that he is deaf. I cannot hear what else is being said, but I hear quiet laughter. My mind returns to my deep thoughts.
Suddenly I feel an arm around my shoulders, and a soft gentle voice says, “I can see those gears turning.” I tell this elderly gentleman, “They are always turning.” He replies, “As long as they don’t freeze up and smoke comes out.”
A gentle touch, soft voice, warm smile, and bit of humor was all I needed to lift my spirits, and coming from the same man who lifted Steve’s spirits. The right people work in that store.
Filed under: Deaf/Hearing Relationship
