The Way We Talk: Coming To Terms With Stuttering

As a speech-language pathologist in the making, I was recently assigned to watch a compelling documentary called "The Way We Talk." This film delves deep into the lives of people

who stutter, exploring their identities, family dynamics, and how society views stuttering. Trust me when I say this, you should watch this documentary by visiting their website: https://www.thewaywetalk.org.

Rediscovering Empathy and Acceptance:

I used to feel a bit uncomfortable when I heard someone stutter. But here's the thing, it wasn't because I had any ill will towards folks who stutter. It was more about my insecurities regarding my stutter. But through self-love and growth, I've come to appreciate and respect the unique voices and experiences of people who stutter. #putsomerespekonmyvoice

Family Dynamics:

"The Way We Talk" sheds light on how some families don't openly discuss stuttering. This resonated with me because it got me thinking about my own family. Do they truly understand the challenges I face as a stutterer? We haven't had those heart-to-heart conversations yet, but I believe they're vital to fostering understanding and acceptance among our loved ones.

Vulnerability Is A Superpower:

The vulnerability displayed by the individuals and families featured in the documentary is genuinely moving. It has prompted me to reflect on my personal path toward healing and self-acceptance. I must admit that I had reservations about naming our daughter Haven. Why? Because I feared stumbling on the "H" sound. What if I introduced her as "H-H-H-Haaaav-v-v-en Haven"? As I envision my future as a speech-language pathologist (SLP), I find myself pondering how can I assist families in navigating these crucial conversations, enabling them to comprehend and embrace individuals who stutter?

Practicing Compassion:

This journey of reflection has been a game-changer in my personal growth and professional development. By examining my own biases and re-evaluating the cultural portrayals in "The Way We Talk," I am better equipped to provide compassionate and inclusive care as an SLP. I am committed to continually learning, expanding my perspective, and embracing my own journey to make a positive impact on the people I'll be serving.

I invite you all to join me on this journey toward acceptance and understanding. By watching "The Way We Talk," you can challenge assumptions and broaden your horizons about stuttering and disabilities. Click the photo. I’m just trying to foster a greater understanding of the diverse experiences in the speech realms, creating a more inclusive and compassionate world for everyone.