It happened again.

In just a few short weeks, the “R” word has been used multiple times to describe my son and other individuals with disabilities.

As I sit here with tears rolling down my cheeks, I can’t believe that I’m typing these words and sharing yet another story of pain and hurt.

I had someone comment on a recent post that I wrote about using the word retard and how hurtful it is.

He said “freedom of speech is one of the best parts of being born in the USA.”

In other words, this man thinks it’s OK to call people retarded because that’s their right.

It’s “freedom of speech.”

I replied back explaining that even though we have freedom of speech, that doesn’t mean we have to use our words to purposely hurt and degrade people.

His response?

It’s an adjective that’s used to describe these people and that I need to grow up because words don’t really hurt people.

And that I need to get some thicker skin if I want to make it in today’s society.

THIS is what’s wrong with our society.

This is a perfect example of the hate and discrimination that people with disabilities and their families still face today.

I don’t need to grow thicker skin.

I don’t need to grow up.

What I NEED is…

No, what my SON NEEDS, is for people to accept him for who he truly is.

For people to embrace differences and treat others with respect and dignity.

WORDS ARE POWERFUL.

We can use them to spread kindness and lift each other up.

Or we can use them to belittle people and tear each other apart.

Both are a CHOICE.

A choice in which one of them will leave wounds and scars that will last a life time.