[Bryanw92]

A friend who lost a child a few years ago was ranting on FB the other day, saying that she was offended when people tell her how “strong” she is and that she wants to be told that she is “brave” instead.

This is how the simple act of compassion has been turned into a verbal minefield for people. You want to be compassionate and say something, but she is actually offended that you didn’t read her mind and choose the right adjective.

Talking to the person you think might off themselves is the same. You have to worry about saying the trigger word or phrase that does make them go do it because some people are that fragile these days.

[freedumb2003]

>>A friend who lost a child a few years ago was ranting on FB the other day, saying that she was offended when people tell her how “strong” she is and that she wants to be told that she is “brave” instead.<<

She is neither strong nor brave. She is entitled. No one should have to bury a child but that doesn’t give one a free pass on simple gratitude.

[Yaelle]

This is how the simple act of compassion has been turned into a verbal minefield for people. You want to be compassionate and say something, but she is actually offended that you didn’t read her mind and choose the right adjective.

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So true. Stop attacking people’s choice of words and be honest, ask for your preferred words, but no more offense at people trying to love you and help you. You can’t have it both ways. Either we are allowed to try and assuage hurt or our top priority is standing tough and being quiet Lest We Offend.