Special
Random chance, not design, is what resulted in these defects. This is fine for candies, but people tend to have a harder time when it comes to themselves. We like to hold people personally responsible, even for their random circumstances.
Unity in spite of differences can be a powerful thing, and a fine goal. We may all be broken in various ways, but we can at least be broken together. In this way, we could maybe overcome the divisiveness resulting from all our variation.
The fact that "special" has become a condescending euphemism is unfortunate. Perhaps the term is kinder, but it is used to cover essentially the same territory as "disabled," "crippled," or even good-old-fashioned "retarded." The word "special" implies an appreciation of uniqueness, rather than focusing on relative inferiority, so it seems like a good one. It is as though someone, in a fit of idealism when choosing this word, thought that we should embrace differences rather than use them to divide us. But instead of that unfolding as hoped, it became yet another tool of ridicule.
You're half a candy!
"He's special" is accompanied by a knowing smirk (whether visible or not) and the quiet implication that even though we know he's not as good as the other kids, we'll pretend anyway. The poisonous attitude hasn't gone away by changing terminology, it has just become more passive-aggressive.
We've got a special seat for you. Over here in the corner … facing the wall.
In truth, there is nothing new here — this is in keeping with established patterns. The only reason "retarded" was appropriated as an insult in the first place was that saying "I think you're inferior" (1) makes it clear the speaker is an ass, and (2) is less catchy.
It's hard not to think less of those who think less of others.
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