2 Examples of the Need for Mutual Respect

I have noticed that common courtesy is almost a lost art in many cases. It’s true! So many people feel their time, money, and feelings are more important than anyone else’s. In other words, they feel they’re more worthy of respect than others. These include the following:

• Individuals in any occupation who make a high salary 
• People who consider themselves to be well educated 
• Authority figures who feel no need to be civil to those under their responsibility

This lack of civility can relate to a number of environments and relationships. It is not confined to any specific social, career, or financial situation.

Who deserves deference?

That’s a trick question. Of course, everyone should be honored as a fellow human being.  That includes those who…

• Don’t have stellar academic and career credentials 
• Do have physical and mental limitations 
• Do think beyond what certain social groups might deem acceptable.

Sales Associates (by phone or in person)

My family is on the national Do-Not-Call List. Yet, numerous companies seem to ignore that directory, especially fraudulent organizations.  I think this fact, along with pushy door-to-door sales associates, shows a huge lack of respect for my time and money.

Professionals in any field

Many careers will attract a combination of individuals who do esteem others as well as those who don’t. One of my biggest pet peeves is medical and dental professionals who consider their time, opinion, and money more valuable than mine. I have plenty of experience with this, since I have a number of physical challenges.

Here is another example of disrespect: Dennis told me a story about a time when he and a friend tried to buy a car. This was decades ago, when the two men would have been in their lower 20’s. Dennis’ friend had just received an inheritance from a deceased relative. So, he tried to buy a new luxury sports car—for cash--at a dealership. The sales associates scoffed at the young man’s youth and refused to believe that he could pay for a new car. Naturally the young men took their business elsewhere.

Mary

She is an online friend who tried to invite members of a certain social media site to join her group of self-published authors. One lady rudely refused her request by stating that she only worked with professionals. Truly, there was no need for such discourtesy. A simple “No, thank you” would have sufficed. However, the woman couldn’t resist the chance to show that she was more important than “amateurs” (to her way of thinking).  

My Conclusion

Respect is a 2-way street. Individuals who some consider to be of lesser value should not be the only ones expected to show deference. People who hold lofty positions and make a hefty salary should also show respect to everyone.

We’re all in this together. Everyone has their part to play.

Have you been shown respect lately?