
18/10/2024
No Knowledge or Skill is Ever a Waste
Today at the Friday prayer (Jum'ah service), I had an interesting experience. I sat near a group of secondary school students who are hearing impaired. While the sermon was being delivered, they kept signing to each other, seemingly deep in conversation. I had the urge to tell them to stop, but I realized they couldn't hear the sermon, and because of the glass partition, it would be difficult for them to lip-read the speaker.
Not long after, a male student arrived and began interpreting the sermon for them. Yet, they continued signing and chatting among themselves. I used sign language to ask them to focus on the boy interpreting. They responded that it was hard to see him because of the partition. Then, one of the students nudged me and asked me to interpret for them instead.
At first, I hesitated—my sign language skills had become rusty from lack of practice. But eventually, I gave in and positioned myself to interpret. Rather than attempting a word-for-word translation, I listened carefully and simplified the message in my own words, signing as clearly as I could. After each explanation, I checked in to ensure they understood.
Though my skills weren't as sharp as they once were, this experience reminded me that no knowledge or skill ever truly goes to waste. I was able to help, and that’s what mattered.
This experience also made me reflect on something else I’ve learned through a creativity challenge led by Coach Gabby : YOU ARE YOUR NUMBER ONE CHEERLEADER. Accountability systems are helpful, but ultimately, it’s up to you to push through and show up.
In the beginning, my accountability partner was incredible. He was proactive, had detailed plans in place, and was dedicated to making sure we stayed on track. But when he lost his phone and couldn’t continue, I was reassigned to a new partner. Though she’s great in her own way, we haven’t been able to connect as effectively.
Was I disappointed? Yes.
Did it stop me? No.
It was a reminder that, at the end of the day, no one can push you like YOU can. So, whether you have all the support in the world or none, it’s your determination that drives you forward.