I Don’t Get “No” Respect! Really?
Depending on whether he was really trying to communicate correctly (he missed it) or just trying to be funny, Rodney Dangerfield, a comedian from the 70’s used this as his mantra, namely, “I don’t get no respect.” He told jokes about his wife’s, his friend’s, his children’s, his parent’s, and even total stranger’s disrespecting him. He was funny to many people. I tried to find a clip to show you but couldn’t find one that was appropriate for mixed company.
If he had been truly disrespected by all those people, that would not be funny at all. I guess part of what made it funny was knowing most, if not all of it, was made up material for a comedy routine. We probably would not be laughing at a guy who was totally rejected and disrespected by so many people.
Could you read the ‘definitions, opposite, what it looks like, and what it sounds like’ at the end of this 52 -Week Plan; and let’s consider the important people in our lives, and how we are doing at showing them respect.
To show honor and value (respect) to a spouse, other friend or family member, people at work, or casual acquaintances are we good at giving them proper attention and good eye contact when in conversation? Do we let them talk and finish their sentences before voicing our own opinion? Do we give their ideas serious consideration and respect the fact that they may know more about the topic than we? Do we ask for their input, where appropriate, in decision making? When we are wrong, do we admit it and, as needed, ask forgiveness? How are we doing at communicating respect to those in authority by the terms we use when making reference to them? Do we respect others by being on time? Do we show respect by responding kindly even when being spoken to unkindly? What attitude do we have regarding those in authority over us at work, in our church, or in keeping the law?
How about respecting Jesus Christ? Do we show honor by praying – talking to Him and listening – and reading His book, the Bible? Do we memorize His Word? Do we love Him and show respect for Him by speaking to others about Him, or do we dishonor Him by not speaking of Him at all. Does Jesus occupy our time and focus when we are not at church? Do we show respect to God with our time, our money, and the way we treat the people He loves…starting at home?
I know this is a lot to consider, but even if you just picked one or two high-priority people in your life as the focal points for answering some of the above questions, you may discover God’s direction to show greater respect for them and at the same time, greater respect and honor for Him. Willing to try?
Respect vs. (Opposite: Undervalue – Abuse)
Defined: Valuing and regarding another highly; treating another as important; honoring another in words and actions.
What it looks like…..Authority appropriate to responsibility. Freedom to do the job your way. Listening without interrupting. Checking with you before making plans that affect you. Appropriate tone of voice. Apologizing when I wrong you.
What it sounds like…”I’d like to hear your ideas. What do you prefer? I was wrong. Will you forgive me?”