Societal perception about hearing and seeing
How to Communicate by John Lee Clark shows how people perceive the Deaf and blind people in society. Society assumes that hearing and seeing is a norm in our daily lives. Clark became Deaf and blind during his teenage years, and he shares his experiences to paint a picture of what Deaf and blind people go through in their daily lives. For instance, one aspect that helps blind people to navigate their surroundings is a sense of touch. Blind people read Braille using a sense of touch. Deaf people use their sense of sight to communicate through sign language. Therefore, Clark reminds society that Deaf and blind people have special needs, especially during communication. Consequently, Clark reminds readers that seeing and hearing are gifts, not as ordinary as they assume.
The ability of the Deaf and blind people
The author emphasizes that Deaf and blind people can positively contribute to the economic development of a country. According to Clark, the most important thing is the authorities to teach people how to communicate with Deaf and blind people. Clark is Deaf and blind, but he is a renowned author. In addition, Clark mentions Sigourney’s ability to write books and teach in a sign language school despite her disability. Clark urges authorities to empower Deaf and blind people by eliminating communication barriers to enable them to achieve more success in society.