For a long time, people have used the word “retarded” as a synonym for “dumb,” “ridiculous” or even “stupid.”

As a child, I heard the “R” word on the playground, on the bus going home, and in the hallways when someone was getting picked on. It was a word that became so invasive to my surroundings that I even picked up on it and would hear it coming out of my own mouth.

Now as a second-year college student dedicating my career to helping kids with disabilities, I see just how much impact one word can have on so many people. At the time, I didn’t see the consequences of my actions hurting anyone else around me; I didn’t understand how hurtful one word could be.

The term “retarded” is more than just a word; it’s become a label.

It is not a word people use positively or even just as a description, but it has become a cruel name that children call each other in a fight, or a label adults use to coin political candidates when they disagree with them. No matter when it is used, 99 percent of the time, it’s used to inflict a sense of hurt or pain.

Sara Milton, a board member of the Treasure Valley Down Syndrome Association said this on the use of the "R" word:

“Because the word has become a casual description of anything negative or flawed, ‘retarded’ is no longer considered an appropriate way to describe people with intellectual disabilities. And any use of the word, even when used as slang and not intended to be offensive, is hurtful - because it will always be associated with people who have disabilities.”

Our words have such an impact and I plead with you to use them as a way to foster grace and understanding instead of using them as weapons. Children with disabilities can still do most of the same things other children can and (just like most children), they hear everything you say. Be kind.

Spread the Word to End the Word is a campaign paired with the Special Olympics and Best Buddies that are spreading awareness of the impact one word can have on a child.

Special Olympics Virginia athlete Joseph Franklin said:

"What’s wrong with "retard"? I can only tell you what it means to me and people like me when we hear it. It means that the rest of you are excluding us from your group. We are something that is not like you and something that none of you would ever want to be. We are something outside the "in" group. We are someone that is not your kind. I want you to know that it hurts to be left out here, alone.”

Be careful what you say, your words have a lasting impact, use them for good.