Every year on August 13th, International Lefthanders Day is celebrated worldwide. This day is specifically dedicated to those who are left-handed, also known as 'southpaws.' Approximately 10% of the world's population is left-handed, and this characteristic distinguishes them. However, left-handed individuals often face challenges in their daily lives due to a world designed for right-handed people. Therefore, this day is celebrated to honor the unique identity and contributions of all left-handed individuals.
What Does it Mean to be Left-Handed?
Being left-handed means that a person's dominant hand is the left hand. This is observed on both biological and neurological levels. The right hemisphere of the brain controls the left hand, while the left hemisphere controls the right hand. According to scientists, the right side of the brain is more active in left-handed individuals, leading to uniqueness in their thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
There's an old saying that 'right-handed people work with the left side of their brain, but left-handed people work with the right side.' In essence, left-handed people use the 'correct' side of their brain. This is why it's said that left-handed people have complete control over their minds.
History of Lefthanders Day
International Lefthanders Day began in 1976 when an organization called Lefthanders International started drawing attention to the problems faced by left-handed people and the difficulties in their lives. Historically, in the 1600s, left-handed people were persecuted as witches because they used their left hand instead of their right.
Over time, specialized equipment for left-handed people was created, but this equipment is often more expensive than right-handed equipment. For example, left-handed scissors, knives, school desks, and sports equipment like golf clubs sell for 75% to 200% more than right-handed equipment. This expense and inconvenience are particularly challenging for left-handed individuals.
Challenges Faced by Left-Handed People
- Inconvenience of daily equipment: Most household and office equipment is designed for right-handed people, making it difficult for left-handed people to use.
- Educational difficulties: Most desks and stationery in schools are made for right-handed children, making left-handed children feel uncomfortable.
- Technical problems: Computer mice and other technological devices are made for the right hand, so left-handed people have to adjust them accordingly.
How to Celebrate Lefthanders Day?
- Be Proud of Being Left-Handed
This day is for left-handed people to celebrate their skills and uniqueness. They can wear T-shirts made for left-handers or post about their uniqueness on social media. - Appreciate Left-Handed Friends and Family Members
If you are right-handed, thank your left-handed friends and relatives for their hard work and challenges on this day. Give them a hug, make a special plan for them, such as inviting them for lunch or coffee. - Wear Left-Handed Shoes – Experience Their World
Changing shoes here means experiencing their equipment. Try using left-handed scissors, knives, or a mouse. This can help understand the types of difficulties left-handed people face. - Tell and Listen to Funny Left-Handed Jokes
Funny stories and jokes about being left-handed are also part of this day. For example, 'Everyone is born right-handed, but only the great ones overcome it' or 'Polar bears are left-handed!' This kind of light-hearted joke makes the atmosphere light and cheerful.
Success Stories of Left-Handed People
Many famous and successful people in history have been left-handed, influencing the world with their unique thinking and abilities. Such as:
- Leonardo da Vinci – Great artist and inventor
- Albert Einstein – World-renowned scientist
- Bill Gates – Co-founder of Microsoft
- Tiger Woods – Great golf player
These people have proven that being left-handed is not a deficiency, but rather a characteristic that can give a new direction to the world.
International Lefthanders Day is not only a day to celebrate left-handed people, but also an opportunity to understand and accept their uniqueness and the challenges they face. This day reminds us that every human being has their own unique characteristics, and diversity is its greatest strength in society.
