Update

We covered a wide variety of topics in the past two weeks... we also took breaks from focusing on DEAF issues by playing golf, completing several brainteaser activities and watching a film that showed characteristics of high power distance and about how people react to change. (One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest with Jack Nicholson- very good movie!!!! I also highly recommend the book!)

Last week, Peter Niemela, a Finnish living here in Denmark, came and discussed different components of the Deaf World with us. He focused on history and sports and shared his "Deaf Stamp" collection with us. (105 stamps in all. Many focused on Helen Keller, sign language and L'Epee- there was even one of a Cochlear Implant! Very interesting!) As Peter was sharing historical information and pictures with us, I couldn't stop thinking about how important it is for our Deaf youth to learn about our history and to have that a part of the school curriculum. As children learn about important figures in history, they also need to learn about Deaf Education and how it developed throughout the world. They need to know about Milan and what has happened in the past century. They also need to understand why residential Deaf schools and Deaf Clubs are so important to the Deaf World and their part in our history. They need to learn about the revolutions in the Deaf community and all the accomplishments that we've made in fighting for our rights. Knowing about our history and the important figures in our community would benefit Deaf youth in so many ways. If they know their roots and where they came from, they can better understand who they are now and why they live the way they do. They would not feel lost. They would also have a sense of pride in who they are, be confident in the Deaf World and what it has to offer and share this positive attitude with others. Also, if we know our history, we can learn from the mistakes- both our own and others'. That way, we can lessen the chance of making the same mistakes- ones that can cost us years and years and one lost child too many. Knowing about past accomplishments and what people have done for the Deaf World in the past can also instill a sense of gratitude and inspire Deaf youth to fight for future generations.