Monroe Chat

The View was discussing the use of words in humor. The discussion included the derogatory words that are bantered around in general conversation (between cultural groups) and words that are used at Home (specifically toward or in the presence of our Children)

I can say that I am careful with words used at Home - mostly because I do not wish to have them become part of my Children's vocabulary, but I acknowledge that they might well hear outside the Home.
Recently, I participated in a discussion which addressed this same subject, a person was offended by a word which although not directed to him, found the term offensive. This is a very interesting topic for me, I have terms / words which personally offend me, but I believe that is because I am sensitive to them, not because anyone else might feel they are derogatory ....

Aside from 'obvious' derogatory terms, at what point do you consider your choice of words when speaking/typing to others? Are you aware of your personal PC'ness when speaking ?

Most of the time, I am very aware. Often I type out a statement for a message board, and then second guess the words I've used realizing my words may very well reach a person who may be offended by whatever little joke I've made. For instance, you never want to use the word "retard" even in jest because someone reading may work with folks who are retarded or have a child or other loved one who is retarded and it's offensive. When talking amongst my music friends I may refer to "jocks" but on a message board I would never use that term in case some sports playing gentlemen are reading. Nor should the same sports playing gentlemen probably refer to any band geeks (though I may myself. )

I'm even more aware of it in front of my kids. I try no to label any group of people. They'll learn that soon enough on their own. Right now they don't seem to have any idea that there are derogatory names for groups of people and I like it that way.

Did I hit on what you meant to discuss?

Yes Mam - I was really just typing out a thought ...... I was curious, we all say or at least 'think' things that are not intended to be offensive to another but in some cases they might actually be.

I cannot recall the actual details, but one of my Children (I want to say it was the eldest) was in a class when the Teacher addressed the topic of Immigrants.... the conversation was quite obviously geared toward illegal immigrants, but when my Child asked me if I was an Immigrant and I answered YES, I saw the physical reaction .... it made me cross!!

I guess (after thinking about this) it is not necessarily the word per se, but the context it is used in....

Being confident and instilling that in children will best serve them, especially now, but later on as adults also. Being influenced both good and bad with people and "phrases" is something we all can relate. Different statements mean different things to different segments and as we see by the political correctness gone amuck, someone is offended by merely saying "good morning".

That being said, some restraint is always appropriate in all aspects, but that needs to apply for the intended or the unintended as well. We, as a country are all too eager to be all to everyone, and in doing so we become insignificant and truly "borish". We all have "buttons" that contoll everything from the most minor of emotions to a major meltdown. Sometimes (no always) it is better to take some time, evaluate, and be much more measured and pointed, or maybe, just consider the source with a footnote!

When one first goes barefoot, the least imperfection will cause pain or extreme caution when walking, but as the feet toughen and acclimate to the uneveness of their enviroment, it is hardly noticed.!

Wow, Blueblood.
Very well said. I've had similiar conversations (as this one) in which I've said it's fine to offend others, inculding me. If I offend someone to a degree that they beat my butt into a bloody pulp, then I guess I'll learn my lesson. This is still a semi-free country and we shouldn't be afraid to offend or be offended.