‘Retarded.’ What comes to mind when you see that? For some it’s that math test you have tomorrow, the thing that your friend did earlier, or the fact that you got in trouble and got a detention. To me that word is one of the most disrespectful words there is. Most people don’t see it that way or they don’t realize that others are hurt by the word. Walking in the hallway I listen to the way people talk and the things that they say and i wonder do they really realize what is coming out of their mouth, and if they do they even care?

Most wouldn’t take the time to stop and actually think about what they say, but if everyone did less people would get their feelings hurt. One of the things that bothers me the most is how the word affects other peopIe, I know how it feels to be hurt and believe me its not healthy for anyone.

Being mentally disable is not something a person can choose, but you can choose how you address or speak of the person, because that is exactly what they are, a person just like you and me. It may not be something you think of  but the things you say to others or around others matter to more than just you .I recently have became closer to someone who has a mental illness and he honestly brings more joy to my life then most other people. Everyday things that others complain about he doesn’t have to deal with and only brings a positive attitude to the conversation that you have.

So the next time that you have a conversation with your friends think about the words you choose to say and what you say that day can hurt someone in the future.