The term never bothered me before I started therapy for abuse in a marriage. All the abuse and sexual abuse from my childhood had left me with a poor self-image and denying my femininity, which I didn’t realize till therapy.

“Guys” takes me back to when I tried to hide my feminine side. I was a tomboy too, probably because of that.

That’s certainly “my stuff” and I acknowledge that.

Also, it feels too familiar, which doesn’t sit well with me. Perhaps just my generation or the importance I place on good manners. It just feels wrong to me to be dressed up for an evening out, and obviously a woman, and then to be treated so casually by staff whom I think should be more respectful.

Again, I realise that’s my issue. But that’s why it bothers me. Reminds me of tomboy days of abuse and self-hatred. And feels disrespectful.

When I was growing up, I was taught to call elders Mr and Mrs. even my parents’ closest friends. These days, I hear little kids calling their parents’ friends by their first names.

Just feels wrong. I like old-fashioned manners and a little more formality in some instances.

But I don’t expect the world to change to suit me so I have to suck it up! 😂 I’m the only one I can change. 🤗❤️