When we embrace inclusiveness, we are actively choosing to make others feel valued, respected, and accepted for who they are. By being inclusive, we help create a sense of belonging for those who may have felt marginalized or excluded in the past. When people feel like they are a part of a community and that their presence is valued, it can boost their self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being.
Here is what transpired between a barista and a man with auditory impairment.
Ibby Piracha is one of many regulars at Starbucks in Leesburg, Virginia. However Ibby isn’t like the other regulars – he’s also deaf.
Krystal Payne, a newly hired employee, knew after she first took Ibby’s order that she wanted to do something to make him feel more welcome at the store. The barista spoke with other employees about Ibby, learning he was a frequent customer and they did what they could to show him exceptional service while he was at the shop.
Payne, however, wanted to take it a step further.
The barista went home and spent over three hours that night learning American Sign Language so she could better communicate with Ibby. In his post, Ibby shared a photo of the note with the caption: “Oh, I gotta love this place. Starbucks woman cashier, she wrote it to me and she knew I am deaf. I am surprised she learning sign language because I attend to Starbucks 3 times in a week. She asked me “what you want drink?” in sign language. I am so blessed with her. I think she realized Leesburg, VA have deaf people. Please share this post to everyone. I want hearing people would understand about hearing community support for the deaf community.”
The next morning, Krystal heard about the post when her district manager complimented her and mentioned that there were many requests from reporters to interview Krystal.
“My job is to make sure people have the experience they expect and that’s what I gave him,” Krystal said. It took her a few days to adjust to her new fame, saying she didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.
Ibby hopes that the gesture will lead to a better understanding of the deaf community.
He was inspired by Krystal’s act of kindness and believes others will be as well.
“It shows she respects people with auditory impairment, she’s an inspiration,” Ibby shared.
Today, Krystal now knows everything she needs to take Ibby’s order. Before she took it upon herself to learn American Sign Language, Ibby would have to order his drink through text messages to the staff. She learned ASL through simple YouTube videos.
Piracha still loves to frequent the coffee shop, saying it is something that “gave me genuine happiness – even now, I’m still smiling.”
Like we’ve always maintained at Torch of Liberty, one mustn’t break the bank to show kindness. Little acts, done out of compassion and love, could mean everything.
In the very position and spot Providence has placed you, you could make life more meaningful for someone. Just endeavor to act kindly.