Respecting Pronouns – Why They Matter

What Are Pronouns

Pronouns replace people’s actual name. Pronouns represent our gender identity. Typical pronouns include “he”, “she” and “they”. Pronouns as a preference is a new concept that many of us feel uncomfortable with. We feel that if someone is born with XX chromosomes then their pronouns are necessarily “she”. We do not see pronouns as a choice. We may refuse to comply with the request to call what we perceive as a “man” with the pronoun “she”.

A Deeper Feeling

The desire to respect our preferred pronouns represents our collective desire to feel deeply. We want to feel like our complete selves including both our male and female aspects – divine feminine and divine masculine.

• Divine Feminine – Refers to the feminine aspect of ourselves that reflects a Universal divine power.
• Divine Masculine – Refers to the masculine aspect of ourselves that reflects a Universal divine power.

Why Pronouns Matter

An inclusive world sees the respect for each others’ pronouns as necessary. It reflects a greater desire to exist as how we feel. Using correct pronouns makes other people feel recognised and acknowledged. Perhaps we do not feel recognised or acknowledged ourselves so we struggle to accept that others may wish to feel this way.

Political Correctness and Causing Offence

It has become political correct to use proper pronouns for each individual. Some people may feel that this “woke” culture is stifling and unfair to “normal” people who use the pronouns that are expected. We can cause offence to gender variant people just by addressing them as “he” or “she” incorrectly. We may not wish to hurt other people but we do so inadvertently. Using incorrect pronouns can be harmful and send a message to gender diverse people that they are not welcome.

When We Don’t Look Like Our Pronoun

It can be confusing to use pronouns when an individual doesn’t “look like” their pronoun. In this circumstance we may feel safer using the generic “they” pronoun. We have a right to ask for clarity from the person about what they prefer and whether or not we personally feel comfortable. It can open a discussion and dialogue that is based on mutual respect and honesty.