For the longest time, I have been fascinated by American Sign Language, and how people can communicate, in detail, using their hands.
This semester I took ASL as an elective and one of the assignments for the class was to go to a deaf event. I had to then write a report about it on what I learned, and signs I recognized. I decided to go to the football game that matched up the Maryland School for the Deaf, against the Texas School for the Deaf.
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One of my friends went with me, and we had a great time! Being in that atmosphere is like experiencing a new culture. It also made me realize how much ASL that I don't know, and showed me a little bit of culture shock. Their football games are very similar to hearing football games. From the way that the players are dressed to the staff members on hand to take a look at minor injuries, and also an ambulance on stand-by, just in case there is a more serious injury. There are cheerleaders, lots of fans on the bleachers and a traditional football field.
In fact, most things are the same, but there are a few differences here and there. For example, to give the signal to hike the ball, instead of yelling, "One, two, three, hike!" they beat a drum. On the second or third beat, the players, feeling the vibration, know when to put the ball into motion.
Also, most people in attendance are deaf, but there were some who were not as well. Most everyone was signing, and it was quite the experience to watch the game, and (though it is considered "eavesdropping," and rude to those of the Deaf community) to watch those around signing to each other.
Different cultures and people are endlessly fascinating; I don't believe you can ever fully know a group of people and their community completely, because everyone is so diverse, but embracing other cultures can be exciting and help you to understand others better, as well as to possibly make new friends!
I actually did not have this on my bucket-list, and unfortunately, it's not something you hear about often, but it is definitely bucket-list-worthy. I wish I would have learned about it sooner, but I'm so glad I had the opportunity to enjoy the adventure of it.
Anything that shows an individual a new culture or way of living is a wonderful life and learning experience just waiting to happen. That should totally land a spot on your bucket-list!
