voice;

[proxysearch]

Now that most of the holidays have passed - and we have one asshole behind bars - I want to discuss with the network at large the idea of using the Newcomer Community Center more often. I don't see much traffic there, which is fine, but I think we can put it to good use in the coming year. Call it a resolution, I guess

Comments

voice;

[typhlopid]

I know a great deal of things and tutor on a variety of subjects at SPU, with a focus on biology, anthropology, and physics. I also at times teach braille. I am uncertain if any of these subjects fit the more general nature of the classes you suggested, but am willing to help anywhere an extra person is needed.

voice;

[proxysearch]

Braille's something good to learn, but I'm definitely open to the idea of the NCC being open for tutoring and extra-curricular help.

[typhlopid]

In spite of it being an excellent code and easy to learn, most sadly do not find the use of braille to be important or applicable.

Perhaps I could host a study hour or something like that, a few nights a week?

[proxysearch]

That's a shame. I wouldn't mind learning it.

[She makes a noise of agreement.]

That's perfect.

[typhlopid]

I will need to consider my schedule before committing to a particular day.

As for braille, I admit I am surprised to hear you would like to learn. It is not something the sighted usually find useful. However, I would be glad to teach you.

[proxysearch]

Take your time. There's no rush.

I'm curious about most things. I'm just not very inherently talented, myself. I have little to offer but I can remember almost everything I learn. It would be useful and interesting, just the same.

[typhlopid]

I am certain you could pick braille up in spite of these shortcomings, provided you correctly follow my instruction.

[A pause.]

It is useful - for instance, there is a modified braille type on the edge of bills, precluding a need to visualize them in order to use it. In the past being able to read it has even saved my life. However, the trend is toward text-readers and audiobooks, as they are cheaper and consume less space, and many blind people, probably even here in Siren's Port, cannot read braille. It is considered better to listen than to read, after all, just as it is considered better watch than to listen.

[proxysearch]

[She's never thought about blindness before and how people work to get around it. It was considered a deficiency to be bred out of people in Romdeau. So it's odd to hear that when there are people who are blind...they are told that they should listen instead.]

But why? Shouldn't they at least try to be somewhat accommodating? It's not right to simply say that it's cheaper and to do away with it.

[typhlopid]

In the case of Hillsdale, they made the point that they would be more than happy to perform any surgery or provide ocular implants rather than simply give me books to read. A mind like mine is a great asset and should not be limited, that is what they said. I disagreed, because I do not view myself as limited.

It is difficult for people to recognize potential in that which is foreign to them. In all likelihood it part of our tribal instincts to be suspicious of unfamiliar individuals.

Consider the case of Mothers Against Newcomers objecting to funds and scholarships being awarded to Newcomer children. They consider it a grave injustice that money is not awarded to those with more potential.

Prejudice may be aimed at different groups dependent on era and sociopolitical norms, but it is more or less the same creature however it is dressed, so to speak.

[proxysearch]

And after all of that...you don't sound bitter.

[Of course, he always could be and just doesn't like to show it. She wouldn't blame him if he was.]

[typhlopid]

Human nature is in turns remarkable and disappointing. All the bitterness in the world would never change a single person's mind.

[proxysearch]

Still, it's an admirable attitude.

[typhlopid]

Thank you. [He's not the least bit humble about it.]

I do not believe we have been introduced. I am Snake. It is nice to meet you, Re-l.

[proxysearch]

It's good to meet you, Snake. I've heard your voice on the network before.

[typhlopid]

And I have heard yours. It seems you are quite well-known and admired by the other newcomers.