The Oxford dictionary defines political correctness as, "the avoidance of forms of expression or action that are perceived to exclude, marginalize, or insult groups of people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against." This definition in itself is a great concept. We should always strive to be respectful and courteous of others, regardless of "what" or "who" they are as a person; at least that is how I was raised to believe and behave. However, in this day and age, this idea of political correctness has turned into something I don't believe it was ever meant to be. Something originally designed to perhaps remind us all to treat others as equals has now spiraled out of control into a concept that, with everyone being the PC police, has now turned into a concept beginning to infringe on our first amendment rights.

I don't think people remember the weight that words like "sexist," "racist," and "bigot" carry with them. These labels can destroy a person's career, reputation, and relationships. Nowadays, these words are thrown around without care. Oh, your a female and that man makes more money than you? Well, let's not first consider whether or not that person has worked longer than you or is more qualified than you let us just label the employer as a sexist and call it a day! Oh, you believe that there are better forms of protesting against police brutality rather than setting buildings and cars on fire? Racist. Wow, your religion prevents you from being open and accepting of gay (homosexual-gotta be PC) marriage? I'm not going to ask you why because it is easier to call you a bigot and walk away.

My generation is being taught to avoid talking about certain issues because we may offend someone. Let's tiptoe around certain topics because we can't hurt feelings. Today everyone is offended by everything, and it is okay because it is justified by the offender not being politically correct. I have been called a bigot and been told I am stuck in the past. I believe that marriage is between a man and a woman. Does that mean if you are a homosexual I will treat you differently? Does it mean I will call you names and try and belittle you? No. But I was raised to believe something else, and because I do not agree does not give someone grounds to label me as a bigot. Nowadays, we can't agree to disagree. Fingers are pointed, names are called, and people are being hurt. But! It is for their own good because they are learning how to be politically correct.

If this is what it means now to be politically correct, then count me out. I will continue to voice my opinions on certain issues without fear of being labeled, because apparently, it doesn't matter what I say, I will be labeled anyway. My parents taught me to treat others as I would like to be treated. If I disagree with you, I will first consider and understand your point of view before I explain mine. This is where I think everything is confused. My opinion may offend you, and then anything I have to say is not heard-it is labeled and ignored.

My hope is that maybe we can all go back to the core idea within the definition of political correctness before it was skewed and twisted. I respect you, and you respect me. You have this view on this topic; I have this view. Let's talk about it openly and understand each other. Let's strive to be civil, courteous, and tactful thinkers, and not people who just aimlessly go around pointing fingers and whining about how the word "Christmas" is offensive because they don't celebrate it.

I'm tired of the nonsense, and until something changes I don't mind admitting that I, Hannah Rowe, am not politically correct.