Essential Human Qualities: Can They Be Taken From Us?

The phrase, 'Can any of our essential human qualities be taken from us?' may seem like a rhetorical question, but it prompts us to revisit our understanding of humanity. It challenges us to ponder how these qualities can be altered or eliminated without losing our fundamental humanity. One such quality, often underestimated in its importance, is the power of speech. However, there are many mute individuals who can communicate effectively through writing or sign language, and this diversity in communication methods showcases the complexity and resilience of the human condition.

Speech as a Communication Tool

The power of speech is just one aspect of communication. There are many mute people who cannot speak but can communicate very well through writing or sign language. They are no less human than anybody else. These individuals may face challenges in everyday life, but their intellect, thoughts, and emotions remain intact. They retain the ability to understand and express complex ideas, even if it necessitates alternative means of communication.

Life with Aphasia

There are conditions like Aphasia, which can significantly impact one's ability to communicate. Aphasia is a language disorder that occurs after damage to the language area of the brain, often due to a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or a brain tumor. People with Aphasia retain their intellect and consciousness, often with complex thoughts and emotions. However, the condition can be incredibly isolating, as friends and family may struggle to maintain regular conversations with the affected individual, leading to social withdrawal.

The Stochastic Partner's Journey with Aphasia

My partner had a stroke that left him with Aphasia, which is beyond frustrating for both of us. I had to develop patience beyond imagining. We are on a journey together, and our relationship has been enriched by this experience. His stroke has not diminished his humanity – he is still there, and he is a remarkable human. Understanding and adapting to this new reality has taught us both the importance of patience, empathy, and resilience.

Examples of Overcoming Communication Challenges

Take the example of Helen Keller, a well-known individual who could neither see nor hear. She initially behaved as an animated child, but with the help of Annie Sullivan, she began to learn sign language. Helen's journey from silence to communication is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and learn. Despite her initial challenges, she retained her intellect and the desire to learn and communicate. This story teaches us that even when conventional means of communication are removed, the essence of humanity remains.

Awakening to Inner Qualities

Ultimately, the being human remains human in being – nothing is taken from us, but instead, less useful traits of judgment, bias, and fear fade away as we grow in love and compassion towards ourselves and others.

These experiences highlight the adaptability, resilience, and fundamental humanity that persist even under challenging circumstances. Whether it's the power of speech, the ability to communicate through alternative means, or the remarkable journey of individuals like Helen Keller, these stories remind us of the profound capacity of the human spirit to overcome adversity.