The Oscars last night got me thinking about the power of language, particularly the word “respect.” It struck me how frequently it’s used, and how deeply it resonates. “Respect” isn’t just a word; it’s a fundamental human need that shapes our actions and relationships.
We see this play out in countless ways. Parents, driven by a desire for their children’s respect, might compromise their own integrity. We all, in various stages of life, strive to gain the respect of those around us – teachers, colleagues, friends, even passing acquaintances. This pursuit of respect is a powerful motivator, shaping our choices and behaviors.
This led me to consider our relationship with God. We’re told God’s love is unconditional. Does this knowledge, paradoxically, lead to a diminished sense of accountability? Do we subconsciously think, “Since God knows my heart, there’s no need to strive for His respect?” Or does the very nature of divine love inspire a deeper form of respect, one rooted in reverence rather than performance?
Perhaps the most challenging relationship concerning respect is the one we have with ourselves. We often relentlessly seek external validation, yet struggle to cultivate genuine self-respect. As we approach Lent, this feels particularly relevant. How do we learn to truly respect ourselves, not through ego or pride, but through self-compassion, accountability, and a commitment to our values? This self-respect, I believe, is essential for a meaningful connection with both ourselves and with God.
Instead of focusing on earning respect, perhaps we should shift our focus to cultivating “worthiness.” Worthiness is an internal sense of value that isn’t dependent on external validation. When we feel worthy, we naturally act in ways that command respect, both from ourselves and from others. This shift from “earning” to “being” feels like a more authentic path.
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