Show Respect

The great Aretha Franklin made Otis Redding's song RESPECT one of her iconic hit songs.  "R E S P E C T - find out what it means to me!"  For all of us, we want the same.  Isn't that the meaning of the of the Golden Rule - treat others the way you want to the treated?  Webster defines respect as - a feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious, etc., and should be treated in an appropriate way. 

"Treated in an appropriate way" - Wow!  Indeed - isn't that the truth?  Respect - it is a powerful word.  We as individuals interact with people everyday.  How we approach and treat people dictate how we will be treated by others.  May I suggest we start by looking inward?  What makes us hostile, prejudice, antagonistic, sarcastic, angry, and caustic toward our friends, family, business colleagues, flight attendants, customer service representatives, strangers, and folks of a different skin color?  Is it a lack of respect?  Maybe.

Each person in his or her own way desires to be liked, loved and understood.  As you seek to live life, smile at a stranger - listen to a friend without judging - and perhaps treat someone in appropriate or different way than you are used to doing.  It has helped me to examine how I treat others to look at my inner self and change the way I respond with kindness instead of judgement.  I guarantee by acting this way will make you a happier and better person.  Ooh... what you want, as the song says is - RESPECT.  Changing the way we act towards others can change us for the better.

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