This was an unusually quiet Christmas party — there was little sound of chatter and laughter. But making up for it were faces lit up with excitement and beaming with smiles, and hands moving rapidly in communication.
This was the scene at SingTel Recreation Centre on Sunday, 14 December 2008, at the Talking Hands’ Christmas party, themed “Christmas Cheers”. Sixty-six hearing-disadvantaged individuals were treated to a line-up of exciting and heartwarming programs put up by 23 Talking Hands volunteers. This was followed by a delicious buffet spread.
The afternoon kicked off with a game that challenged participants to decorate a Christmas tree with recycled materials. After lunch, there was a rousing caroling performance, with translation, put up by the volunteers.
The volunteers also put up a short skit which highlighted the value of genuine friendship and love, especially during this festive season. The performers did a commendable job — not only did they have to plan and rehearse the skit, they had to do it fully in sign language. Their dedication did not go unappreciated, judging by the “applause” they received: their audience enthusiastically waved their hands in the air.
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| PHOTOS: Talking Hands Ministry |
Micah San Jose, 19, who is hearing-disadvantaged, spoke of how her life had changed after the Talking Hands volunteers befriended her and helped her in her studies. Another hearing-disadvantaged member, Jody, shared a song she had written titled ‘Accept Me The Way I Am’. The lyrics tell of how the disabled can be talented and achieve much in life, if only our society would believe in them. The song touched many.
Eileen Toh, manager of Talking Hands, took to the stage and encouraged the participants to strive for a fruitful year ahead. Last but not least, a lucky draw was held, where attractive prizes, such as dining vouchers were won.
Christmas Cheers was no ordinary Christmas gathering, but truly served the vision of Talking Hands, that is, to provide support and friendship to the hearing-disadvantaged community, as well as to create a platform for them to express themselves. Every participant brought home many wonderful memories this Christmas.
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| PHOTOS: Talking Hands Ministry |
