What we say IS what we see.....

It isn’t just about semantics.  It is ALL about semantics.  What we say is what we believe.  And it is also what we see.  If we have total disrespect in our hearts for another human being, it can be clearly seen in what we verbalize.  This is at the heart of our discussion about stigma.  As I read, I am reminded about these core truths.  Today, I read two articles that brought these thoughts to mind.  Here is the first one:  http://bit.ly/16IUuWb  In this article, I read about a New Jersey law that acknowledges the impact that language has on the treatment of the mentally ill.  It changes the way we speak about mental illness in law.  And hopefully, will bring a more positive focus to the way the legal system treats the mentally ill.  I applaud this new law.  I also support the recognition that looking at the way that the mentally ill are treated is job one in making our society more compassionate and caring.  

Here is the second article. This article is political.  And you may disagree with my political opinions, but I hope that you are open enough to look at what I am saying and how it relates to our discussion about stigma and mental illness.  It goes to the core of stigma.  Here is the link:  http://bit.ly/rnEgGU  In this article, Rep. Paul Ryan has a man arrested for questioning his political opinions.  And then makes a disparaging comment about a 71 year-old man as he is manhandled and knocked to the ground for the crime of disagreeing with Paul Ryan.  Again, at the core of this situation is what is verbalized.  What Paul Ryan is doing in this situation is expressing his disdain for another human being.  His mind-set is clearly that this human being is not deserving of his respect.  It is seen very clearly.  Whatever your political opinions, I hope that you are honest enough to acknowledge this.  It is fact, NOT opinion.

So, the basic point is this:  The way that we talk to and about people is extremely important.  Is anybody not familiar with the story of Marie Antoinette and how she   said:  “Let them eat cake!” ? Whether she actually said it or not, this story says something significant.  What did it say about Marie Antoinette as a person?  What did it say about how she viewed people?  What I’m saying is that what you verbalize about other people is at the core of who you are as a human being.  When you are disparaging about other people, it says a great deal more about YOU than it does about the person that you’re disrespecting.  Ever hear the saying that when you’re pointing at another person in disrespect that there are two fingers pointed back at you?  It’s the truth.  When you feed the stigma that surrounds the mentally ill, it says a great deal about your quality as a human being and whether you’re capable of compassion.  

Be aware of how you speak to and about people.  Remember that kindness is a core value.  And try to weigh your words through the reality that mental illness is a biochemical problem.  Examine yourself.