Greetings,
Respect.
A simple word.
Not always understood.
It is demanded without question by some. In reality, it should be earned.
This reality is laughed at by those who see themselves above humility, and will only respect those who, in their eyes, are worthy of recognition and appeal to the aesthetic sense.
Okay, you say, so what's wrong with that?
Well, nothing, if that's how you feel...but the reasoning is flawed.
How so?
What about the dedicated contribution of those in the background who keep the wheels of industry turning, whose skills cannot be replaced?
It was thought the good times would last forever so they did not matter.
Those who are well educated and highly skilled, but it is believed for one reason or another they are not suitable, or just will not be able to fit in.
Consider the respectful and law abiding citizen who is dismissed and treated with disdain by virtue of their hue, custom, heritage, or religion, yet can play a significant role in the development of a country. The main reason for giving one's all is because the purpose is believed in. This can change quickly, because of disrespect.
Commitment to the cause wanes. Sometimes there is the need to escape the chains of nothingness, because one is not to be seen, never mind be heard.
Lack of respect can have a debilitating effect on the economy of a country. Loss of manpower, skills, intellect, all because of a disregard for respect. When one has worked their heart out knowing that they are playing a pivotal role, but feel like they do not belong, it creates the feeling that their time has been wasted, and worst of all their abilities have been used for the benefit of others.
I suppose respect will be learned by some, others will never learn, while the bewildered are just waking up to the concept with a bittersweet taste.
Property, land, and money all have its value, and can be a demonstration of wealth; but nothing can buy an excuse to justify disrespect for another human being.
We need to change the way we treat each other. This does not mean that we should compromise with those who are brutal and inhumane, that is another matter.
The bottom line is this. We all have a part to play in this world. We all may not dance to the same tune, or agree on every issue. Nevertheless, let us try to be civil, learn about, understand, and tolerate one another for the common good.
Peace
Grace
.
