The concept of "respect" in society

We all learn from our parents, teachers and elders that we should respect one another. And we should. The only problem with this wishful realization is that most of the time we really do not know what this word entails. What does respect really mean? There are some definitions and thoughts on this word, but for me it simply means to treat others in the same way you would treat yourself or in the same you would like to be treated. Interaction, based on equality, when violence or acts of violence are absent.

We often see that title, status, race, age difference, and even gender are the social standards that determine who does and who does not deserve respect. If we really would like to realize respect in maybe an utopian world, these standards would not be necessary for people in order to respect one another. Respect is often based on inequality, related to the social standards mentioned here above.

We are so trained as a society to think in these standards that we forget that we are all human beings in the first place. Maybe we should tell ourselves more often that we should go back to basics, let us go back to just being human and let us remember that most of us want the same things. Love, peace, respect and a god fullfilling life and that maybe things could be easier for ourselves and each other when live in such a way that complement each other in these basic needs and not work against each other.

May love and freedom be with you,

Rumi