Respect Is An Earned Gift
I can't recall since when I started valuing respect—the respect to myself, to the people surround me, and to the nature. And I've been teaching my kids to be respectful to people and things that deserve their respects. But I've never really carefuly thought about some of the characteristics of respect, until recently.
Respect is an earned gift
Individuals can choose to show respect and treat others with consideration and kindness, or they can choose not to. Respect is not something can be forced or demanded. However, if you live an honest and honorable life, you may earn the gift of respect.
Don't seek respect
Seeking respect from outside of yourslef as a goal will derail you. It's totally out of your control and shouldn't be your concern. Instead, focus on being solid, being on time, being a good listener, being responsible for your own behivors, and being respectful to others.
Self-respect is fundamental
Recognizing your own worth and setting boundaries to protect your well-being and engery should come first. Respect your body and health, because you only live in your body. Respect your time and effort by doing things that make you a better person.
I have great respect for the past. If you don't know where you've come from, you don't know where you're going. I have respect for the past, but I'm a person of the moment. I'm here, and I do my best to be completely centered at the place I'm at, then I go forward to the next place.
With better understanding of respect, I feel I've gained more personal freedom.