We so often hear that people, especially “the youth of today” do not have respect any more, which I think in a sence is true. If you look at how most people dress and act (oh and I’m not talking about the youth), they do not have any self respect. It is a fact that you never feel as good as when you know you look good.
But what is respect, how do we show it? In the Afrikaner culture we teach our children to say “Oom” and “Tannie” to older people. How I feel about that, I do not dare mention. Let’s just say, I love the way the young men in Paris treat a lady in comparison. Is respect really in wording or is it more than that? The old saying goes that respect should be earned, and here is my big problem. How many “grown-ups” live in a way that young people can really respect them? How many parents get wasted over weekends and then expect their kids not to. How many parents live ethical lives and run their businesses according? How many parents are deeply spiritual , and lead calm, faithful lives?
In old Eastern, Indian and even African cultures, the wisdom of the aged is revered. But do we even have wise old people any more? Can children go to their parents and grandparents and really ask advice on issues such as love, relationships, business etc.
Should I really say “Oom” or “Tannie” to somebody who I think is an absolute idiot just because that person is older than I am? I know young people with more knowledge and wisdom than most of the old people I know, and I respect them.
How do I know if someone respects me? I see it in their eyes, I read it in their body language. It’s about how they relate to me, definitely not what they call me.
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