We all have some people whom we respect very much, like our family members, our friends or our teachers.
Respect often means different things to different people. There are several aspects that many people can agree on, though. For example, at its most basic level, respect means being kind and considerate to others.
Respect can take many forms. Don't make fun of others. Put yourself in other people's shoes and think about how they feel. Remember the Golden Rule: treat others the same way you'd want to be treated.
Respect is important because it sets the proper stage for all our human interactions. Friendship, love, and even basic communication must all start with respect.
Everyone wants to be respected. To get respect, though, you must also show respect for others. It's always a two-way street. You can't be impolite to others and expect respect in return.
It's easy to show respect. Be polite. Look for the best in people rather than concentrating on their mistakes. Show compassion to others and try to put their interests before your own. Make others comfortable when they're uneasy. Help out whenever you can. When you pay it forward, amazing things can happen.
And be respectful to everyone. The world is an unbelievably huge place filled with billions of people, each one of whom is unique and special. And they all deserve your respect!
Be careful, though. Not everyone will show you respect all the time. In fact, you'll probably see examples of impolite behaviour each and every day. How you respond to impolite behaviour, though, can make a huge difference.
If you choose to respond to impolite behaviour by acting rudely yourself, you've gained nothing. You've only continued the pattern of impolite behaviour and set a bad example. Instead, act respectfully and set a good example. Consistently acting respectfully might just help others learn from your example!
