A peaceful coexistence with others is part of our cultural heritage, encompassing interactions with nature, government, institutions, businesses, personal relationships, strangers, and our beloved pets.
by Dan J. Harkey
Summary
When someone appears arrogant, supercilious, and disrespectful, it is often an indication that they harbor inner insecurity. Try to break down their barriers by being open and friendly. If you can help them in their pursuits of happiness and success, it may turn them around, one chip off their shoulder at a time. If you are unable to break the barriers, then avoid them in the future.
Dignity is a universal state of being that transcends our differences and is the inherent worth and value of every person.
It is earned through our thoughts, actions, habits, values, and associations with others. Dignity is fundamental to our culture and humanity.
Dignity rests in the minds of others who associate with us. They know whether we have earned it.
Even animals recognize their inherent value to others and know who respects them. They very much distinguish between non-caring, hostility, cruelty, abuse, and kindness.
Dignity and respect can also be eroded for the same reasons, with the best examples being distrust of governments, mainstream media, and institutions. When we feel that these entities are not treating us with the respect we deserve, it can lead to a breakdown in our respectful behavior. This can create a cycle of disrespect that is detrimental to our society.
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The perception and value others hold for us are reciprocal. We will lose our dignity if we are perceived as failing to treat others with the respect they deserve. This principle of reciprocity, where our actions influence how others treat us, is a powerful reminder of our responsibility to maintain the dignity of others. It’s a two-way street, and our actions can significantly impact how others perceive and treat us, making us feel responsible for our actions and their impact on others.
Showing others dignity and respect is a matter of cultural common courtesy. People who refuse to treat others in this way are generally arrogant, disdainful, insecure, or a combination of all three. This can manifest in various ways, such as interrupting others, speaking over them, or dismissing their opinions.
For instance, respecting a person with special needs could involve being patient and understanding, while respecting someone from a different religion could include being open-minded and tolerant. When interacting with a person with special needs, you can show respect by being patient and understanding their unique challenges. When engaging with someone from a different religion, you can show respect by being open-minded and tolerant of their beliefs. Similarly, when interacting with someone from a different social stratum, you can show respect by acknowledging their achievements and treating them with equal respect. In a professional setting, respect can be demonstrated by listening to others’ ideas and giving credit where it’s due.
Sometimes, tribal social instincts can influence the equation, affecting one’s perception that they are chosen as God’s favored child. These instincts, deeply ingrained in human nature, can lead to a sense of superiority based on religion, social status, or personal beliefs. This can influence how one treats others, often in a disrespectful manner. It’s essential to acknowledge these instincts and consciously work to overcome them in our interactions with others, thereby becoming more enlightened and aware of our own biases.
Each of us has the power to contribute through our actions, and even the smallest of these can make a significant difference. This is not just a responsibility but a source of personal empowerment. Our contributions, no matter how small, are essential to a more respectful society. By understanding the power we hold, we can inspire others and create a ripple effect of respect and dignity, making us feel empowered and capable of making a difference.
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Worthwhile quotes from famous people:
To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
Our inner strengths, experiences, and truths cannot be lost, destroyed, or taken away from us. Every person has inherent worth and can make a valuable contribution to the human community. We can all treat one another with dignity and respect, provide opportunities for growth throughout our lives, and support one another in discovering and developing our unique talents. We each deserve this, and we can all extend it to others.
– Mark Twain
Dan Harkey
Educator & Private Money Real Estate Lending Consultant
[email protected] 949 533 8315
www.danharkey.com
