Respect is defined as a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. Respect is also defined as due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others. Being a fundamental part of ethics, The Principle of Respect for Autonomy, states that in order to be an ethical person you must respect yourself and others.
This article will be short and to the point and may be very blunt. To answer some questions right off the bat; yes, we are all infallible and will get this wrong from time to time. Yes, it is a two-way street. Yes, this article is for all of us. No, respect does not have to be earned before it is given but I do firmly believe that you must give respect to receive it in return.
Every one of us comes from a different upbringing, culture, societal norm, and religion. Through all of that the basis of respect is constant even if it is displayed a little differently. Every culture, to my knowledge, teaches respect for your elders, or respect for the institution that you are apart of. It teaches to respect the system, even if you may not agree with all of it, and find the respectful way to voice your opinion or challenge it.
Here at PAC, we often use the phrase "respect the process". The meaning might vary from person to person, but it is ultimately said to help you realize that there is a method to the madness and that this path you are on is a process. There is a lot that goes into that process: time, energy, knowledge, and gradual mind shift changes, all of which help you reach your goals. We have all been dealt different cards in life so that process may look a little different for each one of us.
However, we should all respect the value and time that each one of us gives to the world and each other. We should respect each other’s opinions and backgrounds of what they went through because if you haven’t walked in their shoes or similar shoes then you do not know what they have been through. That does not mean that you have to like and agree with what everyone else believes, but you can afford them that respect to have their own opinions and few points.
“All I’m asking is for a little Respect” -Aretha Franklin