Yes, it is like learning a whole new language. It will be awkward and confusing but just like anything else in life, you will improve with practice and patience. The effort is so worth it! Being deaf is not a disability. It is just a different community of people with their own customs incorporated into their family culture. Most people who are deaf, especially those born without hearing, do not know any different so it really is not a loss to them. Just another distinction such as ethnicity. If more people understood this and took the time to learn basic signs, we can help desegregate them in society. Eventually, it is possible to remove the disability stigma altogether! Aside from being able to communicate with deaf people and helping them feel less isolated, it is a great skill to teach babies and small children because they can learn it before they can speak, therefore, they can communicate at an earlier age, decreasing frustration induced tantrums.

First, and most importantly, the alphabet.

Even if you forget any other signal, you can always spell out what you need to say. Or vise-versa, the other person could spell out what is needing to be said to you.

I love you.

No matter what language, having the ability to communicate your appreciation and how much you care for each other is something to be cherished.

Family & Friends.

These people are the center of every individual's life. It would be devastating if you could not introduce the ones you love most or receive someone being introduced to you.

My name is...

Along the same lines as when meeting new people above, sharing your name with others is basically step one.

You are Welcome, Please and Thank you.

Please

Almost equally important as basic communication is respect and manners. Therefore, you should be familiar with general etiquette.

I am sorry

Everyone knows that accidents happen and no one is perfect. So, going hand-in-hand with manners, knowing how to communicate your atonement is crucial for maintaining good relationships regardless of how you convey it.

Help me.

You would want to be able to understand if someone was trying to get your help. Also, this could be used to your advantage of you are in a hostage situation and instructed to be compliant or you do not have to strength to struggle. Even in less extreme situations, this phrase important to recognize.

I'm lost.

How alone would you feel if no one understood they way you communicate when you need help. Giving directions may be difficult with limited ASL experience; however, you can point them to a map or find someone who can locate where they should be.

This is just a few very simple phrases that I believe are the most important, but you can google search any phrase or word you would like and find countless videos and tutorials that you can learn from! While not considered vital, I, personally, find the words "cat" and "ice cream" to be used quite often! Good luck on your pursuit of knowledge!