Personally, I find it offensive that people are offended by words. I was brought up when the old saying "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me"
was popular. I still believe we should accept the simple truth of it and not worry about someone's self esteem being damaged. Self esteem is only meaningful if it ie earned by some form of accomplishment, just not hearing hurtful words cannot really give someone self esteem that will serve them in life.
Yes, it also gives away too much power I think... if someone can cause you to be upset just by speaking a word.