I believe that words really do have an impact on us. I realize that to be consistent with what I’m about to write, I have to admit that it’s a choice to let words have an impact. But I think that impact can also happen unconsciously. And I believe that we can choose our words carefully, and that with time it can become easy to use people-centered and strength-based language. The words we use indicate what we believe and how we live.
I have written before about some of the diabetes terminology that I avoid and why. Today I read an article that has really caused me to stop and think. I’m trying to wrap my head around this: instead of using “diabetics,” the title of the article says “diabetes sufferers.” I can’t decide which is worse!! They both imply that the people are victims. It’s so not hard to say “those with diabetes” (in the case of this title). And it’s so much more strength-based and not victim-y.
A wise man told me today that “the issue is not the issue; the issue is the approach.” So if we suffer from diabetes, our approach is to suffer. Another option is to take action – regardless of how big or small that action may be. And that action may simply be to use different words.