Respect Yourself
Question: If you had to choose one character quality seriously lacking in today's society, what would it be? Perhaps patience, empathy, decency or simply love.
As I reflect over my recent interactions with people and observe social media, I see that many times there is a lack of respect.
Everyone knows what it is and everyone expects it from others. We know when we are not being shown respect by someone else. Likewise, we know when we are being disrespectful to another. But do we always recognize when we are not showing respect to ourselves?
Self respect is vital in relationships and especially when dating. You can get into a lot of trouble when you don't honor your values and boundaries. It is easy to do. One little decision to say something, do something causes your date to have less respect for you. The next time, it is easier to ignore the disrespect and enough times it could eventually add up to a major act of dishonor.
Have you been there? I have.
For a moment (or two, or three), I forgot my self worth. I failed to acknowledge that I am loved and cared for by Holy God. I allowed myself to be treated like something other than a daughter of the King.
It can be upsetting, but it is not insurmountable. It may take some healing and time but an important lesson is to be learned. Everyone is worthy of respect - regardless of the notion that to get respect you must earn it. Our value is given to us by our Creator. We must choose to respect ourselves enough to stay true to our boundaries and expectations.
My friend, you are valuable. You deserve to be treated in the best way. And you are enough! Don't let anyone treat you or make you feel like less than you are. Respect yourself and expect others to as well.
As I reflect over my recent interactions with people and observe social media, I see that many times there is a lack of respect.
Everyone knows what it is and everyone expects it from others. We know when we are not being shown respect by someone else. Likewise, we know when we are being disrespectful to another. But do we always recognize when we are not showing respect to ourselves?
Self respect is vital in relationships and especially when dating. You can get into a lot of trouble when you don't honor your values and boundaries. It is easy to do. One little decision to say something, do something causes your date to have less respect for you. The next time, it is easier to ignore the disrespect and enough times it could eventually add up to a major act of dishonor.
For a moment (or two, or three), I forgot my self worth. I failed to acknowledge that I am loved and cared for by Holy God. I allowed myself to be treated like something other than a daughter of the King.
It can be upsetting, but it is not insurmountable. It may take some healing and time but an important lesson is to be learned. Everyone is worthy of respect - regardless of the notion that to get respect you must earn it. Our value is given to us by our Creator. We must choose to respect ourselves enough to stay true to our boundaries and expectations.
My friend, you are valuable. You deserve to be treated in the best way. And you are enough! Don't let anyone treat you or make you feel like less than you are. Respect yourself and expect others to as well.
This post is written for the @fiveminutefriday writing community. Join us! #fmf Writing prompt: Respect #writingprompt #hopewriterlife #respect #bouquet #canva #flowers #sarahwrites #hopewriter
Dear friend, I was moved deeply by your words of encouragement -- that we are all enough, that as God's children we are inherently valuable and worthy of respect. I agree with you: respect of self and other has to be where we begin if we want to heal this world. I do. You do. Keep sharing your words and your faith. Carol Ann, FNF Friend #25
ReplyDeleteI wish I could respect myself,
ReplyDeletebut it just doesn't work;
with honour as the object
I have been such a jerk
to place myself above the rest,
'Look out for number one!'
I therefore have failed the test
offered by the Son
to love myself as neighbour,
to hold my brothers dear;
for me, 'twas too much labour,
and I won't hear God cheer.
By my own pride I have been beat,
and throw myself down at His feet.
Good message. Something I haven't given much thought to, but should. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete