Nine Days to Nurture: Respect.

Respect is one of the most important parts of any relationship. Without it, healthy family life would be impossible. Respect is also one of the most neglected parts of any relationship, and I think that can be understood at its core.

Respect isn't just lacking in relationships by chance. It has happened over the course of many generations; it has been a roller coaster in the U.S.

There was a time when women were not meant to be treated with respect, but as property. Eventually the world (for the most part) figured out that women are not objects, but people. We often consider ourselves in Western culture to be very sophisticated in this way. We know everything there is to know about respecting others.

Newsflash: we don't. We are fooling ourselves if we think we've got the respect thing figured out.

Respect is a simple thing. You give it to others willingly (that's right, "earned respect" is a different thing). Basic, human respect should be given to all freely. It's from this basic level ("you are a human being; a child of God deserves respect inherently") that you can begin to further build respect for others ("thank you for serving our country, I respect you for your sacrifices").

And that brings us to the next part of the respect issue: self-respect. Human beings are amazingly complicated creatures. In our lifetimes, it is unlikely that any of us will ever fully understand human nature in its entirety. With this limitation in mind, let's focus on the general lack of self-respect in American society.

(Honesty time, folks)

Modesty, to me, is a signal of self-respect. I am proud of my body and of its purposes. I understand the sacred nature of my body and wish to keep it sacred. I realize modesty isn't the only form of self-respect, but it is a BIG one for me.

Self-respect and respect for others are the gateway to success in relationships and family life.

When there is respect in a marriage, it is not one-sided. There are two equal partners, both playing significant roles in the marriage to make it successful. If you feel respected, you are better able to act and make decisions in your life & in your marriage.

Respect is imperative to family life. Gain respect for yourself and all those around you. The world will be a kinder, better place when you do.

Next, we will talk about love. Until next time, friends!