CP Blyth Fielding
A decade or so, we have started connecting with the Philippine School for the Deaf in Pasay City. From time to time, we catered to their need for support in any of their programs and activities.
At one point, it was hard for me to believe that despite the disabilities suffered by the pupils who were deaf and mute at the same time, they found life to be still worth living. The vivacity and enjoyment in their quest to feel the normalcy of the situation were admirable. They participated in beauty pageants among themselves expressing answers to questions by sign language and their message came as clear as that of a normal person. There can be no mistaking that their own lives should be lived the way they want as everyone else has their obstacles. It is also short of saying that deaf people can do anything and everything.
Last Rotary year, we got back to where we left off. Our club has again started to support the school by donating a computer unit with accessories and gadgets. With the “stay at home study” enforced by the government to restrain the spread of the COVID virus, the computer is a necessary tool as modules and other documentary outputs are the standard way of educating their pupils and keeping up with the new educational system.
On October 14, we, LCP James and club members, visited the Philippine School for the Deaf bringing with us new and used books, clothing, PPEs, and toys intended for the pupils.
Although we could not personally see the smiles on their faces when some of them get to read the books which otherwise would have gathered specks of dust from others’ bookshelves. These books fascinatingly found new purpose and influence in the hands of our young and new owners and lightened up someone’s life. Even though handheld devices are practically everywhere, traditional hard copy books are still as inspiring reading them.
The beautiful slightly used stuff toys would surely delight the girls once they get to carry them just like a close friend they can be with when they find themselves in situations where they can be alone. While the brightly colored Lego blocks were enchanting and I am quite sure the kids will enjoy the game. It would build teamwork and social skills, problem-solving, mathematics and spatial awareness, creativity and experimentation, physical development, self-confidence as just some of the incredible benefits that Lego playing can offer.
Included in the donation were new and pre-loved clothes, masks, and face shields for the school staff, and other useful items. The activity was a worthy endeavor because while we were getting rid of the clutters in our homes, at the same time we were helping and creating a huge impact on the lives of the needy.
“Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear, and the blind can see.” Mark Twain