I feel like there is a huge amount of disrespect amongst people in this world. I also feel like people think respect is something it is usually not. To start I want to list the dictionary meaning of the word respect.
Respect is to:
hold something in esteem or honor, to show consideration for or to refrain from interfering with
To many people do not uphold the above. But to have a functioning and happy friendship or even interaction involves both people in the relationship to have respect for each other. To many people do not realize that respect needs to exist in all relationships. It needs to be in the relationships of the: boss-employee, husband-wife, parent-child, friend-friend, daughter in law-mother in law, brother to brother...etc
After respect is working in a relationship then and only then can trust, love and understanding grow. So that said what is respect, beyond the dictionary's take on it. Respect is understanding someone may be different or similar to you but they are who they are, and accepting that. Its understanding that things about someone may bring you close but also may create a friction point for you but respect is to let it go or embrace it if acceptable. Respect is showing kindness and caring for everything a person may be. And lastly respect is knowing that each person has the right and free will to make their own choices. If you disagree with how someone may be functioning as a person respect is understanding that people have the right to be that way unless they are endangering themselves or others.
So to understand all of this I thought I would come up with some examples:
-If your employee does his work in a different way but works hard and gets the job done correctly/isn't hurting anything then respect his strategies. (you might learn something!)
-If your wife needs to talk, let her and be there for her. Respect her need for your time.
-If your child needs some privacy do not read their diary. Those are their thoughts on paper not a book for you! (build trust!)
-If your friend does not like football respect that and do not beg them to watch the game with you, go rollerblading next Sunday instead.
-A Mother In Law can respect that her Son's house is his and can respect her Daughter in Law's house keeping without critique
-A brother can respect that his brother does not eat Chinese food so he suggests going out for burgers instead for their weekly guys night
With a little time and caring anyone can treat other people with Respect and in turn make others feel appreciated!
