4TH MEETING:SELF-RESPECT/RESPECT FOR OTHERS (READINGS)

Many generations have been taught that self-appreciation is arrogant - that somehow it is not fitting (SelfAppreciation.htm). For many of us, self-appreciation can be challenging. We have been trained to beat ourselves up, to be self-deprecating, and many of us simply haven’t been encouraged to genuinely focus on what we like and admire about ourselves (Robbins, 2006).

Self-Appreciation is about accepting yourself exactly as you are. It is about loving and honoring ourselves for all that we do, and more importantly, for all that we are. It is also about acknowledging your unique gifts. Within everyone is a highly creative, highly skilled being, just waiting to be discovered. Many of us catch glimpses of this in moments of inspiration, but then most immediately begin to compare ourselves to others, telling ourselves that their work or creation is more valuable than our own.

In the midst of our busy lives, our daily activities, our successes, and even our struggles, it is important for us to stop and truly appreciate ourselves. It must be said however, that without self appreciation, all the other things that you are striving for, will either elude you, or simply remain a struggle. Self-appreciation is the key to true success and fulfillment. The great news is that we have access to appreciating ourselves in every moment…it is simply a choice (Robbins, 2006).

To know one’s own worth and to honor the worth of others is the true way to earn respect. Respect is an acknowledgement of the inherent worth and innate rights of the individual and the collective. These must be recognized as the central focus to draw from people a commitment to a higher purpose in life.

Respect for others is based on self-respect and is summed up in the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have others do unto you. It is the value that makes the world a more decent and civilized place. (www.pearsall.k12.tx.us/Character Education/virtue_RESPECT.htm)
Self-respect means taking satisfaction in appropriate behavior and hard—won accomplishments. People with self-respect also respect others.

HOW TO APPRECIATE YOURSELF (Source: http://www.goodcharacter.com/)

• Be careful about comparing yourself to other people. Sometimes that can make you feel good or even inspire you to improve in some way. But sometimes it can make you overlook what's truly good about yourself and cause you to feel bad.

• Think about times when you've done something good. Include those times when you've made a difference to somebody else by being helpful, kind, or thoughtful.

• Take part in activities that make you feel good such as hobbies, reading, sports, or spending time with good friends.

• Don’t be so afraid of failing that you're not willing to try something new. New experiences can help you grow and discover wonderful new things about yourself.

• When you do fail at something, don't get down on yourself. Think about what you can learn from the experience and how you can do better next time.

• Think about things you do well. Take pride in your successes.

• Remember, the most important thing about people is what we're like inside, not what we own or what we've accomplished.

HOW TO TREAT OTHERS WITH RESPECT (www.goodcharacter.com)

Treating people with respect makes your world a nicer place to live in, whether it's at home, at school, or out in your community. And it's easy - all you have to do is treat people the way you like to have them treat you. Here are a few ideas.

• Don't insult people or make fun of them.• Listen to others when they speak.• Value other people's opinions.• Be considerate of people's likes and dislikes.• Don't mock or tease people.

• Don't talk about people behind their backs.• Be sensitive to other people's feelings.
• Don't pressure someone to do something he or she doesn't want to do.

We live in a diverse nation made up of many different cultures, languages, races, and backgrounds. That kind of variety can make all our lives a lot more fun and interesting, but only if we get along with each other. And to do that we have to respect each other. In addition to the list above, here are some ways we can respect people who are different from us.

• Try to learn something from the other person.• Never stereotype people.• Show interest and appreciation for other people's cultures and backgrounds.• Don't go along with prejudices and racist attitudes.