Living From Respect
It's been awhile since my last post because I have struggled with what to write about. So much has happened in our state, our country and the world in such a short amount of time it has been hard to process the rapid and chaotic changes. The news of the day literally takes my breath away and leaves me heartbroken, afraid and angry. I know I am not alone in these feelings because I am hearing this echoed in the collective voices of people right now feeling powerless, voiceless and victimized.
Turbulent times have always resulted in me searching for inspiration, ancient wisdom and sage advice from people I hold in high esteem. I also deepen my prayer life and turn to my friendship circle for support. Longing for something wise and comforting to help shift my perspective and lift me up.
Watching author Toni Morrison's YouTube interview a few days ago was just what I needed. Juan Williams interview question was so relevant and timely. He asked her, “How do we survive whole when we are all victims of something?” “Not everyone survives” was hard to hear and yet I know that to be true. As is typical of Toni, she answered elegantly, eloquently and finished with, “we are all born now, we are all going to die. So do something that you respect in between.”
As I sat with those words I realized living from respect rather than doing something that I respect was where I wanted to focus my attention. Immediately I knew my wholeness involved not losing myself for the next 4 years in the news of the day. I want to thrive not just survive! For me, holding on to hope is a must no matter what I hear, see, read or experience.
Cultivating a practice of living from respect in the best of times to dip into during the worst of times seemed key. I spent some time reflecting on what living from respect meant to me. Simple things like keeping commitments, showing up on time and doing what I say I am going to do supports my intention of living from respect. Keeping an open mind and an open heart are aspects of living from respect. My big emotions managed and not dumped on others make me the woman I respect today. Non-violence in my behavior and words are also things I respect about myself. Being kind and loving and setting boundaries respectfully in the face of disagreement keeps the door of communication open.
I imagine each person has a different opinion or idea of what living from respect looks like or sounds like. Please consider joining me in cultivating your practice. Let's support each other and not just survive whole but thrive together as a Youtropolis community through these turbulent times.
Slipstream
This article moved me deeply. I identify with what you said, and it makes so much sense. I look forward to delving into what "living from respect" means for me. Thanks so much for this piece—I feel lighter and more hopeful 🌻🌞
Evangel
This piece was exceptional and moving, beautifully expressing the voice of our populace and your own heart. Truth is precious today, as it is in such short supply. It's refreshing to hear the important raw emotions that are surfacing and putting them into perspective as you have. Your thoughts are important, meaningful, and helpful. I feel uplifted! ❤️Thank you.
Wilsons Grave
Thank you for sharing this thoughtful piece. I've always known respect means different things to different folks, but too many don't know enough to figure how to live from that place. I'm with you...I believe being in community is a solid thing to do...it's gainful, learning from others, sharing ourselves, as we do here on Youtropolis. I'll join you all in living from a place of respect...and I'm all for thriving beyond surviving and feeling the goodness and genuine support of others.
Present Valley
Dear Ones....
I write this with tears in my eyes.
Your responses to my post Living With Respect touched my heart deeply.
I'm so glad to read I am not alone on this journey.