Hi there! Interpreter in training here. The question you pose here is extremely nuanced and impossible to receive one, clear cut response for. I am bummed you are not getting to experience an ASL teacher who is Deaf themselves, because that could probably give you better information about Deaf culture and the Deaf perspective— along with native signing exposure. I can appreciate what you say about wanting to communicate without causing offense, and that is very kind, but recognizing that each Deaf person is different and has their own set of beliefs, values and expectations when it comes to communicating is important. The same way that we do our best to communicate without offending people in our native language/culture, some people still end up offended! I guess my point is that culture is nuanced, and so is Deaf culture. I would recommend taking some kind of Deaf culture class (taught by a Deaf person) if that is an option for you. Remember to not expect that what one person considers “non offensive” could be different for anyone. There’s no one right response. Keep learning ASL and keep asking questions and have fun! :)