Names and titles can all get a bit confusing at times. My (mature) children still call me ‘Dad’ although I did tell them to use my first name if they felt happier about it, especially in public. My grandson sends me cards with ‘Nanny’ on them. Mum sometimes still uses male pronouns when referring to me but she is allowed to. She is the one who has known me the longest time and I accept that it is a big adjustment for her. I don’t like anyone else doing it and I correct them. Mum is Mum so she is privileged.
I won’t tolerate being ‘dead named’ either. For those of you who don’t know what that is; it’s when I’m addressed by my former (male) name.
One or two of my work colleagues still ‘dead name’ me. Ok, I know that some of them knew me in a former life, but they have had years now to adjust and get it right. Sometimes I ignore them, sometimes I snarl back with my proper name. It’s mainly the men (jerks). I think they are deliberately being obtuse most of the time.
Dee Starr 