Giving others respect is an easy way to grow spiritually. It is the law of karma that you reap what you sow. Those who respect others become worthy of receiving respect from everyone.
God respects each and every one of His children; He knows everything about them, but He chooses to see their virtues. Because of His unconditional love and respect for the children, He is worshipped. This is something we can learn from, and check if we respect others in similar manner.
How much regard do we have for the Supreme, for ourselves, and for others, whoever they are?
Having regard for the Supreme means knowing Him and living by the highest principles, so that our life reflects the virtues that He embodies. Our own ideas and the opinions of others should not come in the way. Do we think and behave in a manner that inspires others? Do we do so all the time, or according to our whims or circumstances?
If we aspire to lofty goals but are unwilling, or afraid, to take the high road, what will we achieve? If we have questions such as, “How can this be possible…”, “it is the truth, but…”, it means we have forgotten where the truth is coming from. It is one thing to ask questions for clarification, and quite another to ask out of doubt.
To have regard for the self is to maintain a high level of self-respect, with an awareness of one’s virtues. We all have shortcomings, but when we pay attention to our good qualities and work on developing them, the defects are eventually removed.
When we have regard for the self, we keep an elevated consciousness while interacting with others. “I am weak! I lack courage! I would like to be much better, but I cannot do it. Maybe I am destined to be like this. Let me be happy with the way I am.” Feeling hopeless in this manner is to disrespect yourself.
Having respect for others means to have goodwill for them. Do we wish to uplift others, help them become better persons, and have good feelings for everyone? We can have regard for others when we look at their virtues and specialities, instead of noting their defects. To give regard means to cooperate with others on the basis of pure feelings.
Do we accept people as they are and help them overcome their weaknesses, instead of gossiping about them? When we see someone’s flaws, do we make a mountain out of a molehill or do the opposite? Do we give them the courage, strength, and enthusiasm to become better, or are we influenced by them and lose our way?
Giving respect brings us respect multiplied several times over. Along with the respect come love, cooperation, and blessings, which make our own progress quick and easy.
B.K. Asha is the director of the Brahma Kumaris’ Om Shanti Retreat Centre in Gurugram, Haryana.
