Habits take time to break and changing our language usage is no different. Some people can go cold turkey, others need to gradually reduce usage, and then there are slip ups. When I was in junior high and high school there were several words/phrases that we used flippantly. We were ignorant and most genuinely didn’t know better.
It’s not an excuse, but it helps understand how the usage became so commonplace and ingrained. It won’t stop or change without effort though. And even in my slip ups, I know the R word isn’t appropriate to use the way society has shaped its definition.
Looking back I’m kinda embarrassed at all the offensive things I used to say with my friends. We did not have ill intentions but our slang was rude. I can see that better now…
If you support awareness about the R word or are on the fence about ditching its usage (unless on sheet music) you must read Holly’s Word post. This sweet girl’s face will make you think twice. (Posted with Holly’s permission.)
Oh and I need to stop laughing at its usage in movies as part of jokes. It’s all part of the bad habit I’m trying to quit for good. I’m not perfect.
Sylvia Ortiz
Friday 9th of March 2012
Very well said; thank you!
Carolyn Ann Colley (Griffith, Smith)
Friday 9th of March 2012
I had a sister that had Down's Syndrome, and all the kids on the bus was always making fun of her, calling her retard, that would always hurt me so much because I lived with her & knew how loving she was, she passed away at the age of 31. She will always be in my heart & I learned from others to not make fun of others, you don't always know what you are talking about.
Becca
Thursday 8th of March 2012
I had to look up what you were even talking about. I try not to do it but it definitely takes effort on my part. Thankfully people who used to be called that are now called developmentally delayed so maybe we will just see the word go away :)
Lena - @elenka29
Wednesday 7th of March 2012
This is so right. I remember an episode of parenthood, when an atheistic was called THAT at the store. That really blew my mind how some people are just plain morans
Katie Smih
Wednesday 7th of March 2012
I think I stopped saying that about a year ago. Its good to get people to become more educated about this and stop. But its like cussing its going to be hard at first but well worth it in the end.