Hey Rhap,
I'm sorry you're having such a difficult time right now with the men in your life.

I guess I have a few thoughts after reading this thread. Certainly that sexism, along with ageism, racism and all the other "isms" you can think of are still alive and well. I'm sorry that our PC men (too few to start with) are feeling attacked.

I do think someone should be able to express their heart as best they can. I would hate to think that we had to have every word "politically correct" before we speak. PC would be a very quiet place indeed if that were the case.

I think Rhap did everything in her original post to let us know that what she was writing was about HER, and the men in HER life and that she was expressing HER feelings. I would hate to think she should be silenced because she "should" have stated her post differently.

I know that when I post here, I don't always say everything just right. Sometimes when I'm all worked up about something and need to get it out, I do so the best I can at the moment. I never intentionally sit down at the computer, log on to PC and try to offend people.

Perhaps, when sharing here we can remember to give each other some space and the benefit of the doubt. It's also good to remember to give ourselves the space we need too.

To expect that people can and "should" give equally is unrealistic. We all have different abilities, experiences, etc. we bring to any relationship. Additionally, sometimes, one person can actually need more than they can give. It doesn't make them a selfish being. It makes them needy in that situation. Does that make any sense?
Best,
Okie