MaryElise.com :: Modern Woman > Do You Respect You?

Ask Yourself This Question...
Do You Respect You?
By: Mary Elise Chavez
Posted Sunday, August 27th, 2006

	Send Page to a Friend

Flip to Respect in any dictionary and you will see many definitions, among which are: 1) esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person; 2) to show regard for or consideration for; 3) a formal expression or gesture of greeting, esteem, or friendship. While this term is often loosely used, it seems as though few know its definition.

The question we would like you to ask yourself is "Do you respect you?". This goes beyond the casual definition that has perhaps been prompted in your mind before, and heads towards a new arrival of self examination.

It is true that we are a product of our environment, and therefore that effects our communication behaviors with those around us. We learn how to communicate from those which we spend most of our time with. Furthermore, we are influenced by the actions and reactions of our closest peers. Similar to how a child soon takes on the characteristics of their parents or guardians, we (even as adults) will subconsciously take on the attitudes and formalities of that which we are around most.

This is where the term Respect and social interaction converge. If you as an individual legitimately appreciate and value your individual self-worth (as defined by you), you should expand that mentality to all areas of your life. Many people tend to let down their guard when it comes to social interaction. As children, we are taught (often by parents, society, and a natural desire for belonging) that we should be accepting of others and able to be-friend anyone. This is when the fine line appears, and in its place lies an inability to verbalize and define your own beliefs and opinions. The media (often enabled by society) promotes certain opinions, and if you dare disagree with them, you're labeled either Conservative, Christian, or the worst, Republican.

It is an unfair approach to individuals who stand up for what they believe in, regardless of how different it is from society's opinion. As with social interaction, if you go against the status quo of general belief, such as refraining from cursing and vulgarity, you are shunned as a prude or bore. When in reality, you are the one that has it together, you are the one that respects yourself. Rather than conforming to that of peer pressure or a desire for acceptance, put yourself first. Respect yourself, in the true meaning of the word. Don't settle for that which society defines you as, you deserve so much more.

It is important to realize that the people that you surround yourself with will affect you, either in a positive or a negative way. Many times, the way people act and speak around you, is a direct reflection on the morals they think you have, and the amount of respect they have for you. If you disagree with what they have to say, let them know. Verbalize your beliefs and opinions, and stand strong as a person of character.

Stand up for yourself, you are a minority, and be proud of that. Be not of this world, for this world is full of sin. Strive to be that which inspires others and challenges others to keep up with your pace. Take power in being different and thinking about things on a more intellectual level, the greats of history were not followers, but leaders.

All definitions courtesy of Dictionary.com