Why Respect Shouldn't Be Given to the Disrespectful

The Value of Respect

Respect is a fundamental aspect of any healthy relationship, whether personal or professional. It's earned over time through behavior, honesty, and integrity. When someone shows blatant disrespect to everyone around them, and we show respect to those who disrespect others, it greatly undermines the value of respect itself.

Civility

Civility doesn’t mean we must allow others to attack us or our beliefs. In fact, standing up for ourselves is what allows civility. While maintaining a level of decorum is the ideal, it doesn't mean we should be doormats for the disrespectful. When we acquiesce to unfounded and outrageous attacks, we risk becoming accomplices to the negativity they spread. We must recognize that being civil doesn't equate to being passive in the face of disrespect or personal attacks.

Take a Stand

Being respectful doesn't negate our right to defend ourselves. It's important to draw a line between civil discourse and disrespectful behavior. When we overlook or excuse rude and belittling actions, we send a message that such behavior is acceptable. In the long run, this not only encourages further disrespectful acts but also erodes the respect earned by those who have consistently shown dignity toward others.

Not everyone deserves respect, particularly those who go out of their way to show disrespect to those around them. By acquiescing to outlandish attacks, we risk becoming complicit in fostering a culture where disrespect is the norm.