R E S P E C T
Definition: to feel or show honor or esteem for, to show consideration for, expressions of regard
Did you notice that respect is not only feeling a certain way towards someone, but it entails showing or expressing that feeling?
When I speak highly of people when they are not present, I am showing respect.
When I speak calmly and kindly to people, I am showing respect.
When I listen to someone speak and do not interrupt, I am showing respect.
When I do something for my mother and father, I am showing respect.
When I am reverent during the sacrament, I am showing respect.
When I am quiet while someone is giving a talk or lesson, I am showing respect.
When I thank someone, I am showing respect.
When someone opens the door for me, they are showing respect.
When someone asks my opinion, they are showing respect.
The other day I was at a meeting where more people came than expected and the chairs filled up. Ladies were standing. One man quickly noticed and went to find more chairs. This was an evidence of respect. There are hundreds of other examples that I notice every day.
There are some things that I regret doing in life, small actions that I am sorry about, and they each show a lack of respect on my part for another individual.
Perhaps I am at a stage in life where I am finally "getting things", but I see now that the two great commandments are: to love (and show respect for) God, and to love (and show respect for) other people.
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