Why be unkind?

[nullnaught]

I empathize with you and agree with you about the use of the word...I am offended by it as well but the place where we differ is that I am aware that no one else is responsible for my feelings and everyone is entitled to their own perceptions. I don't let anyone else define me so when someone else uses the word queer I know they aren't talking about me anyway.

I sincerely hope that you can come to terms somehow so you do not feel devastated by the word because life is short and as you titled the thread "Why be unkind?"...may I suggest that you might be kinder to yourself and find a way to process this and let it go or react to it in a manner that is not so devastating to you.

Thank you very much for your kind words. All I can say, is that I keep repeating I am in therapy for this. I have been for most of the last 20 years. I can't just buck up and get over it. I am only asking for reasonable accomodation according to the Americans with Disablities act. I am well within my legal rights, I understand. This isn't just I don't like the word, this is a slur, and it is hurtful. It is not just a way to self-identify, it is a way to exclude those who aren't self-loathing.