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August 7, 2019
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August 9, 2019How would my life be different if I didn’t have hearing loss?
I’ve mentioned it in previous posts, but I’ll say it again: I used to really resent having hearing loss and being different from the majority. I was never bullied or treated poorly because of it, but I spent a lot of time wondering, “What if I was hearing? What would my life would be like if I could hear like everyone else? Would things be easier? Would I feel less left out?” and so on.
Oddly enough, the narrative has since shifted. I’m now thinking the same questions. But I’m picturing what my life would be like if I was hearing by looking at the positive outcomes that have resulted due to my hearing loss, instead of the negatives. If I was hearing…
“But I’m picturing what my life would be like if I was hearing by looking at the positive outcomes that have resulted due to my hearing loss, instead of the negatives.”
Would I be as Visual?
Taking in my surroundings and using this information to help give me a full picture of each daily scenario has provided a perspective much different from that of my peers. Not always hearing verbal cues or noises has forced me to use my eyes on another level.
Would I be as Organized?
Many people consider my organizational skills to be a little over the top. While they probably are, I have a strong feeling this is a result of my being so visual. I’m able to piece things together in a logical, creative and concise way that is different from most.
Would I be Detail Oriented?
This goes hand in hand with being visual and organized. My dad often tells me that I see things that nobody else sees. I’m consistently looking for details that give me a better understanding of what may or may not be unfolding in front of me. One specific story he likes to recount is when I was really young and pointed out a mall-goer wearing her shoes backwards. Mind you, it was Christmas time, and the mall was packed with frantic shoppers looking for last minute gifts. Apparently, I couldn’t figure out why nobody had pointed that out to her! Quite simply, it was because most people probably hadn’t noticed or really cared to.
Would I Still Have a Weirdly Good Memory?
I think because I can’t always hear things, my brain has been trained to remember the most mundane facts and details. If I read or see things once, I can probably recite back what I’ve just read or seen. I can frequently remember the outfits people were wearing the first time I met them. Most of the time they don’t even remember.
Would I be as Drawn to Reading and the Overall Concept of Storytelling?
Written words and images (moving or still) have always been incredibly fascinating to me. It’s a place where I have the power to run with these details and create my own world. I’m not competing or being compared to the person next to me. I can’t help but think this is a direct result of my inability to always hear the details.
Would I be as Patient?
Because I’m someone who likes things thoroughly explained to me and doesn’t want to miss out, that often comes with asking “What?” over and over again. This has taught me a level of patience and understanding unlike my peers.
Would I be as Sympathetic and Empathetic?
Similar to patience, I know the struggle of feeling left out or feeling like an annoyance. Therefore, I’m way more in tune with my ability to be genuinely sympathetic and empathetic.
Would I be as Hard Working and Determined?
My fear of being perceived as dumb or inadequate has challenged me to work hard at everything I do. I’m determined to be better, to show I’m worth it and more. It’s not in my DNA to do things carelessly.
Read more: Rewind: Reflecting Back on the Positives About Hearing Loss
Reflection
Having a chance to reflect on these truly unique things about myself allows me to be appreciative of what my hearing loss has likely given me. Now, it took me a minute to really see that these were things that made me different – a good different. This realization was helped by the many conversations with friends, family, and colleagues who continue to share their support and perspective on the good and special in me. I encourage you, regardless of whether you have a hearing loss, to take a moment each day to show yourself some self-love. Reflect and be grateful for the things that make you you!
What would you be like if you were hearing?
