THE R WORD

I heard a resident call another resident the R-word,  the derogatory term for someone who is mentally challenged, while I was eating breakfast. 

I was shocked and offended. This is 2018. I thought that everyone was aware of how offensive and politically incorrect that word is. I didn't say anything. I left without eating breakfast.

 At lunch, it happened again. A younger resident mocked an elderly resident with Alzheimer's. 

When it happened a third time I'd had enough.

The residents who were being made fun of were unaware they were targets. I felt sorry for them. A cruel disease had stolen their mind. it was not their fault. I had to stick up for them.

I told the residents who were doing the mocking and laughing that we were adults. I told them they were acting like children. The response I received was, "Go eat somewhere else." I felt sorry for the residents at my table too. 

 People have assumed that I am mentally challenged throughout my life.  I know what names and labels feel like. 

The school I attended was for physically disabled children. Everyone who attended had some kind of physical limitation.  Disability or not they were kids. They were cruel. They loved making fun of me.

Everyone living here has a reason for being in this nursing home. Every resident deserves respect and empathy. Some of the residents here act just like the kids in my high school class. 

Why do people get such pleasure out of making fun of others?   Does it give them a sense of power? Do they feel superior to the other person?  Why when it is just as easy to show compassion, empathy, and understanding. to someone?

I guess I will never get an answer.