Respect is a universal phenomenon.
It’s a profound aspect of all human relationships and interactions which transcends race, class, religion, gender and age; One of the core forces that keep society from devolving into a state of anarchy.
There are billions of people on earth with beliefs and principles that they live by. Some practices and traditions are so unique that others outside the group cannot comprehend them. These perceived differences are what divide us and mostly all conflicts can be linked to a difference in opinions and beliefs.
The state as we know it was founded solely on the principle of trust and respect of constituted authority. The simple act of showing respect is one of the reasons why we can all coexist and thrive in our society. Disrespect on the other hand can cause strife and disunity.
1. Respect was invented to cover the empty place where love should be – Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina
You don’t have to love a person to respect them. Your attitude and behaviour towards a person can be influenced by the respect that you have for the person. Showing respect can make it easier to get into good rapport with people and build your network.
Human relationships may be less complicated if only people can show love to one another. Sadly, love does not bind us all in society; history can attest to that.
2. Tolerance implies a respect for another person, not because he is wrong or even because he is right, but because he is human – John Cogley
Have you ever had a good day ruined by the actions of the people in your life or a stranger? It could be at the office when your superior scolds you harshly. It could be a vendor that disappoints you on the day of your event. Anytime you step outside your door, the chances are you’ll meet people who may be respectful or disrespectful.
Bearing in mind our remarkable dissimilarities in society, there’s a need to be tolerant of people. Tolerance is a virtue. It’s not exactly an easy thing to do. We are humans; highly governed by our mention. But in the end, choosing to do the right thing is always the best option.
3. To say that a person feels listened to means a lot more than just their ideas get heard. It’s a sign of respect. It makes people feel valued — Deborah Tannen
Another way to show respect to others regardless of who they are is to listen to what they have to say. Wherever two or three people are gathered, it is very possible to have a conflict of interests. Listening to what people say goes beyond what you hear. You need to be able to try to pay attention and understand what they are saying. This does not necessarily mean that you agree with them, but you can learn a thing or two from them.
Life is a circle in more ways than we know. What goes around comes around so be careful the way you treat others. Although you cannot control how people treat you, you can choose to have control over how you treat yourself and others. When you have self-respect, it means that you do not compromise your values and principles. When you respect yourself, people will respect you too. And likewise, when you respect people, the same respect will be accorded to you.
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around – Leo Buscaglia.