I am an atheist. I do not believe in any gods. Nonetheless, when Bishop Budde was in the news recently, I used her correct title and spoke respectfully of her within her own belief system. This is how I treat all clergy. I don’t question it, I don’t tell them what I think of their beliefs. I am respectful.
Respect does not demand understanding. Each one of us has different beliefs. Many of my students wear culturally or religiously appropriate clothing that differ from “the US norm” and I don’t scoff. I respect.
I have taken zero gender confirming medications. I have had zero surgeries related to helping me feel “less male”. I’ve changed my name and my pronouns because, while I’m aware of the state of my body, it doesn’t match the shape of my spirit.
For this, I have gotten people who respect me, but I have also been called a freak, delusional, and all manner of cusswords.
This is not respect.
I do not expect anyone to accept my beliefs about myself. I do, however, hope that people will give me the same basic respect I give others by referring to me in the way that I request.