Respect, Compassion and Kindness

Respect: A feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious, etc., and should be treated in an appropriate way.

Compassion: Sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it.

Kindness: The quality or state of being kind; a kind act.

Three simple words that hold much power. Either by the use, or lack of use, in our society. Unfortunately today, there seem to be far too many not practicing the meaning of these words. Have we become that apathetic? Is this the cold world we want for our children?

Respect - We should treat our family, friends and members of our community with dignity and respect. The use of sarcasm, or saying whatever we are thinking, displays a total disregard for those around us. We don't have to agree with someone, but we should respect their opinions and beliefs. Social media has made it too easy to disrespect someone as we hide behind a computer screen. At times it appears that some forget we are all human beings going through the same struggles in life. Ask yourself if you would say some of these things if you had to look them in the eye. We all want to be, and should be, respected.

Compassion - As humans, I don't know how we cannot have compassion for others. How can you not empathize with someone who is facing difficult times, or who is being mistreated because of their race, gender, religion or socioeconomic status? How can you not feel a desire to help? Remember, some day you could be in their shoes and would want a little compassion.

Kindness - It takes very little effort to be nice to others. In fact it's much easier to expend positive energy than negative energy. It doesn't have to be something big. Sometimes the smallest act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone's life. You can literally turn the day around for a stranger with a few kind words. Watch someone's face light up just by smiling and saying hello.

If we make the effort every day to be respectful, compassionate and kind to those around us, we will be teaching our children a valuable lesson. If we do these things even when others may not reciprocate, we are putting out positive energy. Every time this is done, we are replacing negative energy, and hopefully in time the positive energy will take over.

One thing I do know; when you do good it will always lift you up. Who could ask for more than that?