What kind of musical goals do you have?? I lovelovelove music, so I'm really into the things that other people want to do with it. Hahahah, croaking frog? That's an interesting comparison. I've heard deaf people speak before (mostly actors) and I've got to say that it's an interesting thing to hear.

I think I'd rather date a hearing person because I like the challenge and I love to learn. I feel like someone who can hear could teach me SO much and help me achieve a lot of my musical goals. You won't offend me, so don't worry. Speaking is something that I focused on a lot when I was younger because that's what they emphasized in the deaf elementary school I attended, so I CAN speak. I choose not to speak because it will never be completely correct/tonal because I have no comparison. People who weren't born completely deaf usually learn to speak because they've heard voices and can relate to how a sentence sounds using changes in pitch and tone. For me, I would always be monotone and sound like a croaking frog which doesn't appeal to my personality much at all. Great question!

Hahah, I don't think I've ever heard that stereotype before. That's pretty funny though. Would you rather date a hearing person or a deaf person? This question might come out kind of rude, so I'm sorry. Do you know how to speak or is it just something you've never done?

The easiest ways to communicate are through text/email/technology/paper, since the average Joe doesn't know fluent sign language. I've gotten very good at reading lips, but it's not an exact science (especially when people have accents). The frustration kicks in with potential relationship partners. They seem to get frustrated that we can't talk on the phone or that they can't hear my voice so that's a constant struggle. It's hard to date someone who's deaf, as well, because then we're BOTH unaware of our surroundings. It's best if you can just find a happy medium. My family is amazing at helping out where they can. Overall, people are more curious than anything, so that increases their patience. There must be a stereotype out there that says that all handicapped people are unattractive, because when people find out that I'm deaf, the most frequent response is "But you're so cute!" To which I want to say, ...how is that relevant? When you break through the stereotypes and focus on the benefits, issues dissolve into annoyances and all is well.

Okay. How do you communicate with hearing people? Are they patient with you or do they just get frustrated?

Not offended at all, madam! Feel free to ask away. Thanks for the welcome!

Hey Ryan. I really hope this doesn't offend you, but would you mind if I asked you some questions about the deaf culture? I'm trying to learn ASL and become more informed about the culture itself. I'd love it if we could chat a bit. Also, welcome to the site.