Alright, I give.
For years now I have used two words that people have frequently brought to my attention as inappropriate. At different times these two words used to be a staple of my vocabulary. I use them both infrequently now, but they still make an appearance from my mouth from time to time. And if I were honest, I almost always get a look or concerned comment.
To reveal my excuses for what they are- The word I use more frequently is "retarded." I use this word as a means to express my dislike of something. I thought I could use this word because I had a down-syndrome relative. I figured I was among those who had every reason to be offended by the misuse of this word, yet I wasn't. So I used it freely.
This morning I was convicted. As I ate my cereal and caught up on blogs, I read this article. I don't know why this confrontation was different from the rest (especially considering that it was totally impersonal and not even directed at me), but I have a guess.
I just started meeting with a close friend to intentionally discuss our lives, pray for each other, and hold each other accountable. Before our first meeting she suggested setting goals for ourselves that we can help each other with. I was wrestling with what goals to set, because I wanted them to be real and realistic. I decided I would create a list of 10 attainable goals, but I only had a rough idea for a few. So I began to pray and ask God to reveal to me areas where I need to improve or be more intentional.
So I'm reading this blog and slowly my actions come to light when BAM! "And it will also cost you the friendships of those who struggle with being gay. Like me."
I wish I would have seen the folly of my thinking years ago. Just because I may not be offended doesn't mean it's not offensive (DUH Nicole! That's what you've been telling students about cursing...). It's time to clean up my mouth.
