Sustaining Respect through Spirituality

Of all the human values that sustain society or any system, RESPECT is considered to be the most fundamental. It serves as the key to imbibing the ethics of others effortlessly. The seeds of respect are sown into every individual from early childhood.

In most households, children are taught to greet elders with respectful gestures and language that reflects honor and courtesy. Whether it is “ladies first,” “pehle aap,” “haanji,” “shukriya,” or “thank you,” the code of conduct based on respect is evident in every civilized society.

Respect in Indian Culture

India, often referred to as the world’s spiritual guru, embodies a rich culture and heritage that emphasizes respect for every individual. The concept of “Atithi Devo Bhava” equates guests to deities. Parents, particularly mothers, are revered as next to God. A girl child or a new bride is considered “Lakshmi”—the goddess of wealth and fortune.

It is traditionally taught that every woman should be respected as a sister or mother. The nation itself is equated to a mother, as seen in the reverence for “Vande Mataram” (Motherland) and “Mother-tongue” (native language). Rivers, often named after female deities, are considered sacred, and natural elements such as fire, earth, water, air, mountains, trees, the sun, the moon, and stars are worshipped as gods and goddesses.

While these cultural aspects evoke pride, there is a visible gap between what is preached and what is practiced. This raises the question: Why is there a lack of respect among individuals? To bridge this gap, let us explore the meaning and manifestations of respect more holistically.

Self-Respect: The Root of Respect for Others

Self-respect is the virtue of recognizing one’s self-worth, valuing one’s belief system, strengths, and acknowledging limitations with the intent to overcome them. According to ancient Indian spiritual wisdom, every individual consists of both physical and spiritual entities, which share a symbiotic relationship.

When we recognize that it is the spiritual entity that defines our thoughts, actions, and personality—rather than the physical self—we cultivate an inner strength that is unaffected by external praise or criticism. By appreciating our own spiritual existence, we naturally develop respect for others, fostering humility.

A humble person, much like an ocean that receives rivers without discrimination, attracts love and respect. To give respect is to receive respect.

For example, if I return home on a hot afternoon and expect someone to offer me a glass of water, I must also be willing to do the same for others. This mutual understanding strengthens our ability to respect others.

Respect is Like Sunshine

Just as sunlight transforms darkness into light, respect helps us see the true nature of individuals. We begin to focus on their brighter side while being aware of their flaws, without allowing negativity to influence us.

Moreover, sunlight has the power to purify by eliminating harmful germs. Similarly, when we respect others, we dissolve disputes and cleanse ourselves of ill feelings, leading to better karmic relationships. Over time, this fosters a cycle of positive reciprocity in human interactions.

To Respect Others is to Admire Their Qualities

When we respect an individual, we begin to notice and appreciate their strengths and qualities. Conversely, when we focus on someone’s abilities, a natural sense of respect arises.

Respect is essentially a deep admiration for someone’s qualities, abilities, or achievements. However, we must ask ourselves:

• Do we respect everyone with the same quality equally?
• Or do we let their weaknesses cloud our judgment?

If we fail to respect someone, it is often because we are focusing on their flaws rather than their strengths. By shifting our focus to the positive, we develop a genuine sense of respect for others.

Respecting Others Fosters Equality

Every person plays a unique role in the grand world drama. When we admire someone, it is not their position but their qualities that we truly respect.

A direct result of this understanding is the dissolution of social and personal biases. Whether rich or poor, young or old, from any caste, creed, or nationality—each individual deserves equal respect.

Consider actors in a movie—both the hero and the villain play their parts, yet they are respected as individuals. Likewise, beyond societal roles, every person is a spiritual entity worthy of admiration.

To Respect is to Listen

One of the greatest demonstrations of respect is active listening. Truly hearing another’s perspective prevents judgment and prejudice, showing that we value their opinions and emotions.

When we listen, we convey: “I understand you, and I care about your feelings.” Sometimes, simply being heard is the biggest form of validation a person needs.

While listening, we should adopt the mindset of a child—open and eager to learn—without preconceived biases. However, when it comes to decision-making, we must also be the master of our own choices.

Respecting Others Demonstrates Acceptance

Respecting others includes respecting their:

✔ Ideas & beliefs
✔ Feelings & decisions
✔ Space & privacy
✔ Belongings & limits

This fosters harmony in relationships. True respect celebrates diversity and acknowledges that every individual has had a unique journey shaped by personal experiences.

We often perceive others as “wrong” simply because their “right” does not align with ours. By accepting that each person has a different definition of right and wrong, we cultivate mutual respect.

An ocean accepts all rivers, regardless of the debris they carry. It assimilates the water while leaving the impurities at the shore. Similarly, each person has strengths and weaknesses—if we only focus on their faults, we miss out on their virtues. By being like the ocean, we can embrace the goodness in everyone while letting go of negativity.

To Respect is to Demonstrate Obedience

Obedience is a direct manifestation of respect—whether it be:

• Abiding by laws and social norms
• Following organizational values and ethics
• Respecting the advice of elders

Obedience does not imply blind submission but rather a commitment to values and a demonstration of faith in others’ wisdom.

Respect Freely Flows…

Respect is not limited to individuals but extends to everything around us:

✔ Time & Money
✔ Resources & Environment
✔ Rules & Disciplines

It is an intrinsic trait, independent of external factors. When we cultivate self-respect, it overflows naturally, allowing us to extend and sustain respect for others effortlessly.

Conclusion