Respect
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
Matthew 7:12
Definition
You treat others people as you would like to be treated.
You treat people with courtesy and kindness not because of who they are or what they have done, but because, like you, they have a God-given dignity. You respect yourself so that you have the confidence to be yourself and not give in to things you know are wrong or not to give in to those who want you to do things you don’t want to do. You show respect for creation through your care for nature.
Biblical sources
“Show proper respect to everyone.” (1 Peter 2:17)
“Don’t do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
“Respect your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise added: “so that all may go well with you, and you may live a long time in the land.” (Ephesians 6:2-3)
“In all things you yourself must be an example of good behaviour.” (Titus 2:7)
“Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another.” (Romans 12:10)
Courtesy
“Do not speak evil of anyone, but be peaceful and friendly, and always show a gentle attitude towards everyone.”
(Titus 3:2)
Definition
You are pleasant and polite and have good manners. When you are pleasant and polite it makes people feel valued and respected. You say ‘Please’, ‘Thank you’, ‘Your welcome’, ‘Sorry’. You know they are ways that let people know you appreciate them and care about them – courtesy is a way of showing your love.
Biblical sources
“Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.” (Ephesians 4:29)
“Your speech should always be pleasant.” (Colossians 4:6)
“A gentle answer quietens anger, but a harsh one stirs it up.” (Proverbs 15:1)
Catholic sources
“Pope Francis has often suggested three little words to families, to make daily life more beautiful. The first word: “please” is not just a matter of good education— says the Pope—but a sign of concern for others, a way that we can express our care and our love for our parents and siblings. Even Jesus knocks at our door, asking permission and patiently waiting for us to open. The second word is “thank you,” God help us if we do not learn to be grateful, to say thank you, to recognize the good that we do for each other in the family. How many times do you say “thank you” to Mum and Dad for all that they give you? Finally, the third word is “sorry.” The Pope knows that this word is hard to say; but he reminds us that it is necessary, if we want to stop evil with good. Maybe that’s why Jesus wanted to recall forgiving in the Our Father. Remember? “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” (Pope Francis Family Catechism 10)
Why Practice Respect and Courtesy?
Being respectful and courteous helps people feel valued and appreciated. All people of every culture and race, age and sex should be respected. Rules in our schools and faith help to guide us to respect each other in what we do and say. When we respect ourselves and our world we are fulfilling our role of stewardship in God’s world.
How do we Practice Respect and Courtesy?
A good way to practice respect and courtesy is to think about how you would like to be treated and then treat others that way. You treat others’ space and their belongings with respect. You listen to what they are saying without interrupting. You speak with kind, quiet, polite words to others. Your behaviour shows that you are considerate of others feelings. It is expressing your opinion as an opinion, respectful of the fact that there is more than one point of view.
Signs you are Respectful and Courteous:
- I respect myself and know I deserve respect from others
- I treat everyone how I would like to be treated
- I use good manners
- I respect and follow school and classroom rules
- I speak politely to everyone
- I listen to others
- I praise others for their good conduct
- I respect and look after my own and other people’s belongings
Reflection Questions:
When do you and your friends show courtesy and respect for each other at home and in school?
How do you feel when someone is not courteous or respectful to you?
How do people react when you forget to be respectful?
Quotes:
‘No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.’ Eleanor Roosevelt
‘Respect is treating your body with the same care you would give any other valuable and irreplaceable objects.’ Cherie Carter Scott
‘Most smiles are started with another smile.’ Anonymous
‘Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.’ Janet Lane
‘Politeness is to do and say the kindest things in the kindest way.’ Anonymous