Respect includes taking someone's feelings, needs, thoughts, ideas, wishes and
preferences into consideration. It means taking all of these seriously and
giving them worth and value. In fact, giving someone respect seems similar to
valuing them and their thoughts, feelings, etc. It also includes acknowledging
them, listening to them, being truthful with them, and accepting their
individuality.
Respect can be shown through behavior and it can also be
felt. We can act in ways which are considered respectful, yet we can also feel
respect for someone and feel respected by someone. Because it is possible to act
in ways that do not reflect how we really feel, the feeling of respect is more
important than the behavior without the feeling. When the feeling is there, the
behavior will naturally follow.
In order to gain respect, you have to give respect. Respect has great importance in everyday life. As children we are taught (one hopes) to respect our parents, teachers, and elders, school rules and traffic laws, family and cultural traditions, other people's feelings and rights, our country's flag and leaders, the truth and people's differing opinions. And we come to value respect for such things; when we're older, we may shake our heads at people who seem not to have learned to respect them. I try to respect others and their feelings rather they are right or wrong. I find out that when you respect people it will carry you along way.