I get reminded at times at how suddenly quiet seems lonely. Before my cochlear implant quiet was a day of not having some brush my arm, or wave their hand, or put their hand on my shoulder. Now it seems so quiet when people realize I can hear what they say and they begin to talk with me verbally only to feel awkward that no one requires a hand to get my attention. Music is still on again off again. Some of it I really enjoy, other things not nearly as much. The oddest sound I deal with is my own voice. I don't use it. It doesn't feel like me voice. I still prefer to sign. Nights are different now with the idea I have an entirely different sense that can wake me or startle me. I used to rely on a service dog for when I needed the doorbell and still do rely on one for seizures. Life is still going after my implant but it still feels so alien most of the time. I just keep on moving.
