R-E-S-P-E-C-T

I think this is one of the most powerful words in our language. Think about it, we all want it and yet we often have trouble giving it ESPECIALLY to those who matter to us. We often find it easy to think because I have a relationship with this person I can take out whatever I am feeling on that individual and it is ok - but it's not ok. How do we expect our children to be respectful if they are not respected? Why would you think your colleagues, your family, friends, loved ones would treat you any differently than how they are treated by you?

For Christians the golden rule is Do unto others as you would have them do into you. Isn't that the definition of respect? For Spiritualists the golden rule is karma. For our Eastern neighbors is it not ying/yang? And for all of us is it not peace and harmony we crave to have surround us? And how is this best reached?

I challenge you, but mostly myself, in both your professional lives and personal lives, to remember this word and think if not only the impact it has on others, but the impact it will have on you as well.