First-Hand Experiences...

In the first part of class this week, Charles & Howard shared their experiences and perspectives growing up as homosexuals. Charles shared his experiences with growing up in a small county town with extremist groups like the KKK. He realized he was different by the time he was 12 but truly believes that individuals are born that way. He shared how he grew up with a childhood just like others; working and playing. This contrasted his partners upbringing of knowing that he was homosexual since he was born. His partner believes that being openly gay so early on made his life much more difficult. His family doesn't speak with him any longer. Charles on the other hand gets along well with his sisters. His father was accepting of his lifestyle and supported it while his mother refused to accept the truth. Charles' medical difficulties brought the truth of his families acceptance of his lifestyle to light. He also feels that media portrays the worst of the homosexual community.

Howard's mantra is 'Fear will control your life if you let it.' He knew he was different by 7 but was afraid to talk to his parents about it. He continued to act like others to please those around him. At the age of 12, he decided to talk to his parents but was stopped by his family's reaction to his cousin coming out. He went through girlfriends and dates but it never lasted more than a month because he was so uncomfortable with the situation. At 27 he was an educated and successful man but could still not come out due to fear. Eventually he met a woman who he fell in love with and married. They had two children together. After about 5 years into the marriage, Howard struggled to maintain a relationship while his heart was not in it.  He focused his attention to work instead of his family. After filing for divorce, Howard came out to his friends and family. His parents were not supportive and didn't speak again for 2 years. His children had differing reactions to his news. His son was very accepting while his daughter had a difficult time. Howard lost a lot of family through his experiences. He has learned that you cannot go against the grain of nature.

The second part of class focused on language diversity. I found the facts and information about American Sign Language to be very interesting. For example, I was not aware that 381 languages are spoken in the United States. The spelling test from different hearing loss situations was very eye opening for me as I have a student with some hearing loss in his left ear. It allowed me to better understand what a student with hearing loss must cope with in the classroom.