[Jenn-Z]

I work with people who have disabilities including speech impairments, so I have a little bit of experience with this and will share what I have learned. I think it is normal, when speaking with someone with a speech impairment, to want to 'help them out' and finish their sentences and thoughts for them. Partly this is due to our own embarrassment, how WE would feel if we had the same impairment, and people coming from this view point are not meaning any harm, but actually trying to do good. Think of it this way, though: You go through your day, week, month, year with people never letting you finish what you are trying to say. They finish your sentence, assuming they know what you are trying to communicate (and are usually wrong). They appear impatient as you do your best to express yourself. You start trying to make your comments brief, but feel you are talking more like a robot or a toddler, than an adult. You start to feel unheard and misunderstood. Imagine feeling that way for years. What that would do to your self-respect. I have learned that it is only respectful to allow someone to speak and finish their thoughts. I am not the judge on what the proper speed of speech is, nor do I always say the right thing in the right way. I think it is worth my 'time' to listen to others, if for nothing more than to allow them to be heard and feel respected. This leads to empowerment and feelings of worth, which only increases the level communication.

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Name : Jenn-Z, Gender : F, City : Cedar Rapids, State : IA Country : United States, 

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