Don’t call me Sugar. It’s amazing how one little word can rub me the wrong way. I’ve been called many things over the years. Some of them were far worse than Sugar. I usually don’t object to terms of endearment. However, I am not something used to sweeten coffee or sprinkle on cereal. I’m not a muffin or cupcake, either. I’m an intelligent, strong, and capable woman.
I like to think that I’m the type of person who doesn’t sweat the small stuff. I’m frequently called Sweetie, Honey, Dear, and other terms of endearment. I’m fine with that. My clients are often older folks who mean well. Sweetie is much easier to remember and pronounce than Margarite. I understand that. I just can’t stand to be called Sugar.
I use pet names upon occasion, myself. I use endearments for my husband more than his given name. I often refer to each of my step-children and their significant others as Sweetie. I sometimes call my step-daughter Baby Girl, but I try to refrain from that now that she’s grown. I call my granddaughter Princess more than anything else. I even call my dog Sweet Baby instead of his name most of the time.
In this day and age, so many people are coming forward to report far worse grievances than pet names. It seems silly to be upset by a simple nickname. Yet, when a well-meaning associate calls me Sugar, I want to hit something. He certainly means no offense. He believes he’s being nice. It isn’t like he calls me Doll Face, Toots, Chick, or any of the other not so kind names I’ve heard.
The term brings back bad memories of a person I would like to forget. While it’s my issue to work through, I believe we should think twice before using a name for someone that he or she may not appreciate. I used to call my nephew Puddin’ Pop until he told me that absolutely hated it. So, I started using his given name, and now we get along much better.
I intend to have a chat with my associate about his choice of nicknames the next time I see him. He’s a perfect gentleman who will most likely be quite upset when I tell him that I really hate to be called Sugar. I’m going to politely explain that I prefer he use my name or practically any other endearment.
We all have our little idiosyncrasies. I certainly have my share. I always endeavor to be a positive person, but there are some things that really irk me. If you want to show your affection for me and use a term of endearment, Sweetie works fine. Just please don’t call me Sugar.
What pet names bother you?
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