Often, while I work, my mind recaps conversations and situations that I have experienced or overheard. I think of it as the brain processing what it wants to heal in our lives. I used to allow things to replay over and over in my mind which drove me down the road called despair. Today, instead of continuing down that road I have learned to talk it out either with myself or someone I am close with. Talking things over with another is a super healthy way to see things from another perspective and it often makes perfect sense.

If you are the type of person that lets things roll off your shoulders when what was done or said to you was just plain mean or disrespectful, you could be teaching that person who spoke or did an action that it’s okay to verbally/physically abuse you. Disrespect is not okay. You don’t need to be a fighter; simply speak the first feelings you have when you are hit with insult. Teaching others how to treat you can easily be done without harsh words. You can simply reply with something like, “that wasn’t very nice and I won’t accept being talked to or treated like you just did.”

As with how others verbally or physically treat you, the same goes for your belongings. If you respect and take care of your “stuff”, others will be more likely to do the same when they borrow from you. Take pride in your belongings. Show others what you expect and treat their stuff with respect too.

Don’t deny that how you talk to or treat others says a lot about you and you might well be treated the same back. It’s your responsibility to be firm but kind when you relate to those around you.

I’m not a fighter. I used to be meek, mild, passive and afraid to stand up for myself. I’m still mild, calm and kind but I no longer let others use, abuse or disrespect me while still not being a fighter. Self-control goes a long way. Respect for others goes a long way too.

If you want respect, you must give it. If you want to be treated kindly, don’t receive anything less than what you would give. Teach others how to treat you by your actions, words and your fellowship.

Be the light, be the change, be example of kindness in this world.

~Stand tall.