Hearing accessibility is the main drive of the ministry of LET MY PEOPLE HEAR, INC. We pray and work with churches to consider ministering to the hard of hearing people within the church, then invite those outside the church to come and hear clearly the Word of God.
The Lord inspired me to write the “The Law of T.H.A.C.” which is an acrostic for “Total Hearing Accessible Communication.” One of our graduates from the LIP READING ACADEMY, Angie Fuocco, wrote a preamble in the form of an acrostic explaining what the laws mean.
The Law of THAC for those who hear, those who don’t, and those who try their best at it.
By Angie Fuocco
Love and embrace every deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing person. Learn to communicate as others’ differences require and as the Lord requires you.
Alert others of your hearing loss and special communication needs. Allow the hearing-challenged to this on their own; do it for them only if asked.
Wave, touch, or otherwise get the attention of the hearing-challenged. Wild, wacky movements overdone, make a fool of only one—he or she who dares to make fun!
Only one person speaks at a time—period. One can hear too many sounds from too many directions, yet understand nothing at all.
Face each other (speaker, listener) whether you hear at all, well, or not. Full attention to others shows respect for everyone and helps some “hear” better.
Teach hearing people how to communicate with you! Tell them your needs such as lighting, seeing their lips, no gum, objects or fingers at face or other distractions.
Help the hearing-challenged understand you. Ask yourself, “How can I slow down, say it another way, use easier-to-hear words, or visualize what I am saying?”
Assume that nothing may be heard or understood by the hearing-challenged. Ask them to repeat what you said. Ensure total understanding, then move on.
Clarity is key. Speak normally shouting or exaggerating sounds or words do not help at all. Communicating with patience correctly reveals the words and the motive…Christ’s love. The best assistive listening device beats inside you. Listen with your heart. Love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart…and your neighbor as yourself.
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Untill the Trumpet Sounds: LET MY PEOPLE HEAR!
David M. Harrison
