Language Arts...

When I was probably about ten years old I was given a bookmark that had the alphabet in American Sign Language. I studied the positions of the hands and practiced daily until I could sign my ABCs without assistance from the bookmark. I was excited to learn that my undergraduate university also offered ASL courses as electives, which I snagged without hesitation. I probably would have double minored in both Spanish and Sign Language had I not had to stay past four years to accomplish it. Journalism was my intended major, so I was receiving the art of language from all disciplines at that point.
I've always had a serious love for language in all its forms. I wish I had the skills to match my passion because I'm envious of people who are multilingual. Becoming a bridge for someone to gain understanding is invaluable. Yet, little Levi has again taught me something of the opposite. The art of silent speech proves equally priceless. Many in the Deaf community see American Sign Language as just that- a language, not a disability. Regardless of your views, I think watching Levi's inability to process words quickly has actually made his use of language more purposeful. Similar to my husband, Levi thinks before trying to communicate so that he is uttering only what needs to be said without a bunch of prepositions, adjectives, or fluff. My eldest son and I, on the other hand, love the details. There's a time (storytelling perhaps) for extra adjectives, but we could stand to learn a few things about being slow to speak from our other family members.
It's reminded me that the Deaf are given a beautiful opportunity to listen more and talk less. There are only so many signs in ASL, so your expression and body language speak even more than usual. That's exactly how Levi has communicated since birth. While he may not lack his ability to hear, Levi's natural shyness also provides a platform for learning through listening.

Say more with less. This was one of the most important rules I taught my high school writing students. I may not follow this rule in me speech or my blog, but I'm eager to learn from my "L's" right now. Levi and Luca can't tell me much about their illnesses or issues right now, but I can watch their body language closely to understand their pain.
I want my boys to all learn how to communicate properly, but wanting to speak first is the true handicap. God says to "let your words be few when you come to me," (Ecc 5:2). The Bible reiterates guarding your tongue, mouth, words, and lips as a sign of wisdom (Proverbs 10:19). Thus, I am shamed when I inevitably put my proverbial "foot in my mouth" because of my lack of waiting in speech. We are all given different gifts and those who are without words may in fact have an even rarer gift than I realized.

Little Luca still struggles with his breathing to the point that we are using his "emergency" steroids daily. We haven't had many answers thus far. This will bring us back to our fourth doctor's appointment tomorrow since returning from the hospital. Every mama knows the struggle of having a sick baby who can't tell us what is wrong. But please pray for peace, wisdom, and health for our little family and especially our little baby boy.