If I had to pin down what I think is wrong with people these days, I would have a quick answer. People have lost the virtue of respect. By definition, to respect is to act in a way which shows that you are aware of (someone’s rights, wishes, etc.)
Today there is no respect for self, for others, or for things or property. Children have no consideration for their parents, authority figures or other people in general. In days past it was common to hear parents say “respect your elders”. Life experiences made older people wiser and respected. However, today’s children feel quite differently. In fact, the young people show contempt for those older than they are.
Bullying runs rampant in contemporary society due to inconsideration for others. Bullies beat down and break those whose opinion differs from theirs. There is little respect for anyone who dares to be different, even those who differ through no fault of their own. A person considered imperfect automatically deserves to be disrespected.
Lying, stealing, littering, abuse of animals and people have all increased in the world we live in. What causes this? Lack of respect. There is no respect for the planet we live on, for the feelings or property of other people, or for the animals who share the world with us.
Even respect for one’s self has declined over the years. People sell themselves to the highest bidder who gives them what they desire. Both girls and boys sell their bodies for drugs, money, alcohol or attention. The desire for things is stronger than their self-worth. Do the parents teach this at home?
The total lack of respect shows a decline in the moral code. There was even an honor among thieves and criminals that no longer applies today. Society has an “anything goes” attitude. There is no consideration for themselves or for others.
Children are growing up with attitudes of privilege. It matters not who they stomp on as long as their desires are fulfilled. Tired, working parents often unwittingly create these children because they are too exhausted to stand their ground. Money and things replace the attention the children are crying for. They learn to bully their parents until they get what they want. Because of this, their parents lose their respect. So, how can we question it when they also bully others for what they feel they are entitled to?
But, how can we change this attitude? What can we do to teach them respect for others? Show the young people the other side of life. Let them donate at holidays. Teach them to give to those less fortunate. Children learn by example. Show them how to respect others by doing so yourself.
Few of us will ever have a chance to change the world single-handedly. But, we can all be a part of changing the world as a collective. We all need to do our part. Look around your community to see who needs help. Teach by example.
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