RESPECT: A WAY OF LIFE ANITA SAKARIYA

The word respect comes from the Latin word �respectus� meaning attention, regard or consideration. It can be defined as �esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation of a personal quality or ability�. It is a very important component of both personal identity and interpersonal relationships. To feel respected could be considered a basic human right. Disrespect is a very important thing that can lead to break-ups and even violence. It is a concept that refers to the ability to value and honor another person, both his or her words and actions, even if we do not approve or share everything he or she does. It is accepting the other person and not trying to change them. Respecting another person is not judging them by their attitudes, behaviors or thoughts. It is not expecting for someone to be otherwise. Our differences are positive because it creates our identity. This means that individual differences exist, but above all to understand that as members of a society we are equal. All people are due respect for the simple fact of being people. Equality is in balance. That is why it is very important to teach children from an early age the value of it. The best way to teach respect is to become a role model for our children. Respect for others is very important, but for yourself is fundamental since you will value others to the extent that you are able to value yourself. �don�t do what you don�t want to be done to you,� and �respect and value.� Some synonyms of respect would be deference, obedience, attention, courtesy, tolerance, compliance or admiration.