Published: January 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Sybil Davis
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Aretha Franklin sings about it, poets and authors write about it, parents talk about it and many of us forget about it. So, as Aretha sings “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me,” let’s try to figure out why this does not seem to be of great importance to many people today.

First of all, we must learn to respect ourselves. Often when someone is disrespectful of others, that person does not respect himself. There have been several outbursts of disrespect mentioned on the news and in magazines recently. These outbursts happened to involve people in the public eye and were viewed by millions of people. The fact is, it happens every day all over the world but does not make the 6 o’clock news. Even so, feelings are hurt and many people suffer.

Many people feel strongly about always saying what is on their minds. In the real world, we simply cannot do that and expect to be accepted with open arms by society. There are some who are only respectful to those who may be responsible for making certain things happen for them. It’s easy to pick these people out, especially while dining in a restaurant, as they often will be nice and respectful to the guests at their table but rude and demanding to the server. This provides a clear picture about a person.

Respect should be given to everyone, especially to our superiors in the workplace, our nation’s leaders and to the elderly. We may not always agree with someone else, but we should always show respect to them. Also, we must earn the respect of others. It is not something that we can demand or request for ourselves.

I often wonder just how a flock of geese decides on the leader when they fly in the “V” shape. I am sure there is some scientific reason behind it, but I would like to think that the lead goose is the one who is respected and trusted the most.

Many of you are leaders and many of you are working very hard to become leaders in various fields. I encourage you to put forth a special effort to be respectful of others as you lead and as you begin this wonderful new year.

Quote: Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners. — Laurence Sterne, British author