R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Well, I started out with a long drawn out commentary on the lack of respect and courtesy in our society these days.

After proof reading it, I decided that it probably isn't necessary to point out all of the areas where manners are lacking and where courtesy is no longer apparent. I think we've all been there.

And frankly all this back and forth about who is responsible for the shootings in Arizona last week has made me re-evaluate my own words and actions.

So......

I've decided not to judge those who have made me cringe over the lack of respect.

I am just going to pray for those parents who are trying to be their kid's best friend and not enforce any rules or regulations.

I will attempt to be the person that doesn't speak on their phone in public places. I don't have to answer every phone call, text and email that comes in. Trust me, they will call back. And if they don't, well, maybe they will manage to solve the problem without me. We didn't even have these fancy dancy phones a couple of years ago anyway.

I will treat the person I am talking to, as "the most important person in the room at the moment !" After all, she/he is sitting right in front of me. That person has to be more important than my phone call, text, or email.

I am going to RSVP immediately for social events. I don't want anyone to think that I am waiting for a better offer.

I will pray for the sales clerks that hides in the store so they don't have to answer questions, and the manager that comments rudely and especially for the gum chewing cashier.

I will refuse to listen to the talking heads on television telling me what and how to think about this issue or that bill. I firmly believe that if this government doesn't succeed, the country doesn't succeed, whomever the government is. And so I will use the intelligence and values that I have been given and work out the issues in my head and heart. I will listen respectfully to others' views. After all, I will assume that they too have worked out the issues and have not taken someone's word for it.

I will attempt to be that person that I highly admire. The one who cares and respects others and who is courteous and polite.

That's what I am going to do!