Respect.

“The first duty of love is to listen.”
- Paul Tillich.

Each and everyone of us has a built-in need to be heard, understood and respected. The key to remember that respect is a sword that cuts two ways. What we really need most comes to us as we give it away to others.

Respect the feelings of others.

Learning to really listen and developing sensitivity for the needs of others is most often a matter of practice. When listening to others, learn to focus on them, and give them your fullest attention.

Resist the urge to interrupt or mentally construct your reply, and do not be tempted to judge or instruct. By listening attentively, you validate the speaker and convey respect and caring. It is only, in giving you shall receive.

Being brilliant is no great feat if you respect nothing. Every human being, of whatever origin, of whatever station, deserves respect. We must each respect others even  as we respect ourselves. As an old saying goes, “He who wants a rose must respect the thorn.” Man are respectable only as they respect.

Respect the man and he will do all the more – whether given or received is its own reward.