We live in a world with many rules. There are laws, byelaws, rules of the road, religious doctrine, professional codes of practice and social guidance such as manners.

If we were to simplify the desired outcome of all these rules to one characteristic, what would it be? My answer is respect.

Would we need so many rules if we treated each other with respect?

How would the world be if we:

• Treated each other with respect?
• We respected other people’s opinion and perspective?
• We respected mother earth and all her inhabitants?
• We treated ourselves with respect?
• We respected our soul?

The dictionary states that respect is a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities or achievements. Synonyms include: esteem, regard, high regard, high opinion, acclaim, admiration, approbation, approval, appreciation, recognition, veneration, awe, reverence, honour, praise, homage.

Simply put, treat others how you would be like to be treated.

Could this be the problem? We want others to treat us better than we treat ourselves. Is the lack of self-respect the crux of so many problems we may face?

At times we don’t respect our body. We may eat poor food, not exercise enough, not get enough sleep and/or work too hard.

At times we don’t respect our mind. We may work too long, fill our time absorbing negativity through the media, associate with negative people and many other ways.

Do we ever respect our soul let alone acknowledge it?

Maybe the first step to making the world a better place is to develop a profound sense of self-respect. So how do we do this?

A good place to start is to listen.

• Listen to your body
• Listen to your emotions and feelings
• Most importantly listen to your soul

Once self-respect is achieved, respect will naturally flow to others, all life and even mother earth. Self-respect is an important step on the journey to unconditional love and unity.

Mark- The Alchemist’s Journey