Gary Maldonado’s Imago Dei Story

I was born without hearing in the Dominican Republic. Because I was without language, I was without education. My life was extremely difficult and frustrating. Because I couldn’t hear, other kids took advantage of me, and blamed me for everything. There was no safe place and no other Deaf nearby.

My mom and I moved to the U.S. when I was 12 years old. My new school placed me in 5th grade, and there, I began to learn ASL and English. God gave me this amazing ability to learn quickly, to understand both new languages and my new cultures.

I really miss my family in the D. R., but God has given me a special gift. Here, I’m involved in the Deaf community, and I realized there are so many Deaf and hard-of-hearing people who have great, successful lives. And it was here in the states that Jesus got a hold of my heart.

I know life will not be easy, but with Jesus, I know God is with me. I have faith in Him and that, in every situation, He is there. I’m so thankful He has turned my life around.

I’d like hearing people to know how important communication is. It’s not hard to learn about Deaf culture and American Sign Language. Give it a try! Hang out with us, be kind and respect Deaf culture. Just like stepping into God’s family: You don’t need to be perfect.