I recently taught my first graders a lesson on what it means to be respectful. We talked about the 'Golden Rule' and the qualities of a respectful person: They learned about it's importance and the definition of respect:
· Respect is to treat others kindly without criticizing or judgment
· Respect is to treat others as we would like to be treated (Golden Rule)
· Being courteous and polite
· Listen to what others have to say
· Don’t make fun of others or pick on them
After I finished my lesson, a thought crossed my mind on my way home. We teach our children about how to be respectful, but do show respect as adults to those around us? To those we love? I think more often than not we take our family for granted, biting them down with harsh and unkind words and actions until we fill empowered---all under the common safe phrase "I'm just joking". I'd like to hope that instead of criticizing for flaws and misconducts that we can see the good in others and uplift one another instead for their redeeming qualities. I know that often times we pick on loved ones in jest. But how far can you go before it's no longer loving and becomes hurtful and rude? I mean it's your family! Why are we so quick to speak unkindly to our family and be nice to our friends? Families are forever. If you were to place a price on all that family means to us, would you think that we should treat them with more respect?
Just a thought on my walk home.
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