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So I see this happen a lot and I want to talk about it. Yes, ASL looks really cool and it's really great you wanna learn! Everyone should! BUT. ASL is attached to a beautiful culture. You cannot learn the language without learning the culture. Those 2 go hand in hand (1/?)
ASL is not there for you to learn just the curse words so you can go around signing them. It's not just there for you to talk secretly in class. It's there for you to communicate with the Deaf community and to learn about its history. (2/?)
ASL is also not super easy to learn! You have to practice consistently to get better and you need to be prepared to make mistakes and improve! It's a commitment, not just a class to take to fulfill your foreign language credit. (3/?)
Also, THE BEST WAY TO LEARN IS TO INTERACT. Do not learn ASL if you dont intend on ever talking to Deaf people. You shouldn't be scared to talk to them! You will make mistakes when you sign and it's fine! It's a learning process. But get out there and chat! (4/?)
Deaf events are always going on, and they're super nice and welcoming! Just look up where some events are near you and if you're allowed to/able to, go out and meet people! You'll probably learn lots of new signs and you get to practice while making friends! (5/?)
When you learn ASL, go ahead and research the culture! Theres lots about Deaf culture I can promise you have no idea about. It's so interesting to learn about and it helps you understand the language better as well! Like I said, they go hand in hand (6/?)
Ultimately, learn ASL for the right reasons. Its disrespectful to just want to know how to sign curse words and just because you wanna look cool. It has a history.
Also, that sign you keep thinking is the sign for "bullshit" is incorrect. Stop doing it.
Thanks!
Also, that sign you keep thinking is the sign for "bullshit" is incorrect. Stop doing it.
Thanks!
