R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Don’t you just hear Aretha Franklin belting out that old song when you see that word? I’m including a link in case you need a dose of Soul Music from the Queen of Soul.
On a more serious note, this Value is highly important, similar to last month’s emphasis on Integrity. It is not difficult to witness a lack of respect in so many areas in our world today. So many are watching tv shows and playing games that are literally mindless and glamorize talking back to parents, the demeaning of father figures, glorifying language that was blush-worthy a decade ago, disregarding the sanctity of the sacrifices of our forefathers, our country and our flag… In so so many ways. We’ve witnessed a nose-dive in respect for life itself.
What happened? Why does it matter?
Do you even know what the definition is?
"Respect, also called esteem, is a positive feeling or action shown towards someone or something considered important or held in high esteem or regard. It conveys a sense of admiration for good or valuable qualities. It is also the process of honoring someone by exhibiting care, concern, or consideration for their needs or feelings.
Some people may earn the respect of individuals by assisting others or by playing important social roles. In many cultures, individuals are considered to be worthy of respect until they prove otherwise. Courtesies that show respect may include simple words and phrases like "Thank you" in the West or "Namaste" in the Indian subcontinent, or simple physical signs like a slight bow, a smile, direct eye contact, or a simple handshake; however, those acts may have very different interpretations, depending on the cultural context." (Wikipedia)
RESPECT, as in every aspect of life, is a choice. Have we been sold a bill of goods that has caused inordinate confusion, inconsistencies, lack of decorum? The KEY is that we must respect ourselves first. Perhaps that one key, along with the loss of core values in our culture, and the uncertainty that seems so pervasive, is that we don’t even know what is truly important anymore.
One way to discern what your values are is to look at your calendar and checkbook.… In my current world, I continue to witness that in certain demographics, entertainment is the highest value, even if it is vehemently denied.
Does that ring true? What to watch? What to play? What to listen to? What game is hot right now? How many amazon packages are arriving regularly for fun? It is rampant.
Self Respect grows from taking responsibility for everything in your life. No excuses. None.
RESPECT is a choice. I CHOOSE to Respect God (the ultimate Source Creator of life). Be Still And KNOW! Do you ever shut off all the noise and LISTEN to the Truth you have in your Soul?
I CHOOSE to Respect Myself. Am I designing my life, or playing in the noise of what’s happening out there? Am I clear on what is most important to me? Am I living by default or design?
Do I CHOOSE to Respect other people? Do I understand that each and every one of us is unique and deserving of respect, regardless of our personal judgements? Choose to respect by turning off phones when talking with others. Looking in the eye. Firm handshake. REALLY Listening. Be Kind. Always.
How do I Respect other things? Do I pick up after myself? Do I CHOOSE to leave things better than I found them? Do I wipe the public sink with my towel? Do I bless the next person that comes after me? Do I realize that some one, another human being, has to clean up the mess I leave?
Let’s leave the World a better place. Let’s Respect Ourselves enough to Respect our life and our home and our environment and our community and our world. My Mama said to make the world a better place. She certainly did. How about You? (it IS your Legacy!)
