Saturday, September 4, 2021
Respect is a deep admiration for another and for their inherent goodness. Condemnation is a judgement of another, based on their transgressions. The way we see each other, and ourselves, is a choice. We can sense the inherent goodness in others, or we can hold people accountable for every little “mistake” they make. But the only person you are to hold accountable is yourself! Everything else is pure judgement and condemnation – something the world needs less of.
To respect another is to sense their inherent goodness. You can do this in yourself too. Bring an awareness to any lack of respect that you might hold for others, and in this moment, call to mind the inherent goodness they possess. Each human has the intangible qualities of being lovable. Magnify those qualities whenever you can. We can either bring out the best in each other, or we can bring out the worst. The crossroads of relationships lies between these two focal points – respect and condemnation. When the road gets rough, change course, and refocus on the inherent goodness in yourself and in those you love. It’s often difficult, but it’s the only way to move beyond the pain of the past.
The target of respect is focusing not on the past, but on the present moment. In this moment, you can reflect on which qualities makes a person lovable, not just their poor choices and hurtful behaviors. This refocus will get you through challenging times, especially. Mistakes are temporary and in the past, but respect is permanent and in the present moment. Respect doesn’t forget the past. It sees through the past, and it magnifies the inherent beauty of each human, no matter what contemptuous thought you may have about them. When given the choice to condemn or to respect, chose respect. It will encourage others to do their best for you, and to be the best more often. People are in search of dignity. Show them what makes them worth your love and respect, and you can change the world.