When we think about communication, we often think of it in terms of spoken language. But what happens when someone is predominantly non-verbal? Does that mean they cannot contribute to the community? Absolutely not.
I recently had the pleasure of spending time with someone who is predominantly non-verbal, but who is a pillar of their community. We went bowling with some of their friends, and then enjoyed a festive movie together. Despite the communication differences, it was an incredibly enjoyable outing.
What struck me most about the experience was how our differences did not negate our impact on the community. The person I was with was beloved by their friends and made an effort to connect with each person, even if it was through non-verbal communication such as smiles, nods, or gestures. It was clear that they were an important part of their community and brought joy to those around them.
This experience taught me that communication isn't just about spoken language. It's about finding ways to connect with others, regardless of our differences. It's about listening to each other, being present in the moment, and sharing experiences. Even if we don't share the same language, we can still build meaningful connections and have a positive impact on our community.
As we watched The Grinch together, I was struck by how the story was not just about the joy of the holiday season, but also about the power of community. The Grinch was initially isolated and unhappy, but through the kindness of the Whos, he learned the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of connection with others.
Similarly, my experience bowling and watching a movie with my non-verbal friend and their community showed me the power of human connection. It reminded me that our differences don't have to divide us, but can actually bring us closer together.
In conclusion, spending time with someone who is predominantly non-verbal taught me the importance of finding ways to connect with others, even if it's not through spoken language. It showed me that our impact on the community is not determined by our ability to speak, but by our willingness to listen and connect with others. It was a powerful reminder that our differences don't have to divide us, but can actually make us stronger as a community.