Respect
Human Values are like the petals of a flower. They are all interrelated and connected by something central and unchanging that binds them together. It’s “the glue of Love!” Not the feeling or emotion that sometimes we identify love with, but its inner core of Beauty and Goodness. Love’s energy uplifts and builds deep connections, and makes us feel good!
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This means that when we practice even only one human value, we are practicing them all, and we are aligning with Love. And this is what happens when we follow the value of Respect!
Respect springs from our awareness of the worth, (and rights) of all people, of nature and ourselves, and even of objects!
We treat people with respect by being courteous and polite, by saying hello when we meet, and paying attention and listening carefully when they speak to us. We value everyone’s sensitivity and points of view, because we value our own, and wish to treat others the way we would like to be treated. Which is why we are careful not to do or say anything to offend their dignity or hurt their feelings. We respect our parents and teachers by observing rules and carrying out instructions, and by doing so we learn to abide by the codes of conduct that govern our living together in society. We show our respect to nature by appreciating its gifts and safeguarding the precious resources planet Earth provides us with. We care for our belongings, and if someone lends us something we may need we handle it correctly, and return it with gratitude. All this is a sign of Respect.
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Respect is a key value to honor and uphold in our lives. Thoughtfulness, care, politeness, regard, appreciation, admiration, obedience, gratitude and self-love, are among the many human values that make it strong. It helps us foster a good rapport with everything in life, and it nurtures a harmony in our thoughts, words and actions. If we “think respect” our words will be kind and our ways will be filled with love: we will continuously remind ourselves of the worth and value of all forms of life, and will take nothing and no one for granted!
Don't miss the story "The man and the cane"
At the beginning of each month you will find a new value to "walk with"! If you wish to pick another one in the meantime, our "Value Card" page is set up for that! And why not make your own value cards to keep at home or take to school, so everyone can pick a value?!