Quote:
Originally Posted by bhoylegend
Ok, thanks.
After I was given the warning I was really astounded and a little disgusted to say the least. I didn't see what I said that was wrong or an insult. I didn't even accuse him of being homophobic, just that his language could come across as mindless homophobia.
The reassurance means a lot.
This is an important issue that I've been pondering quite a bit lately, that of "language".
I use the term "gay" quite often in reference to things that have absolutely nothing to do with the definition of the word, I might call an experience at the store "gay" because I waited in line for 20mins.
However, in my life I take the issue of gay-marriage, rights, very seriously. (by the way, I am a hetero male) I am very outspoken about bigotry, racism or sexism. I believe that the teachings which go on inside most Church's on the subject of homosexuality and gay-marriage constitute hate speech, and spread the venom of bigotry. The word "abomination" is offensive to myself, when used to describe any person or group, however this word carries with it an ideology, it is not simply a word in our language but a belief system.
I agree that usage of words can be offensive, or hurtful but they can also be used to turn what was once a derogatory term meant to inflict pain, into something of little to no meaning. At one time, not so long ago the word "gay" meant to have a joyous time, today it almost never is used in that context.
Now, I don't mean to diminish your feelings in the experience that you describe, but it sounded as if you, at first questioned if you were wrong to take immediate offense. perhaps you were? you applied some attributes to the word (weak?) which maybe were not intended by the author. I only wonder what is the more important fight, words, or ideologies/beliefs, for myself the latter is all I'm concerned with, and I hope I am not overlooking something..