RESPECT

Mr Rogers speech at assembly

An incredible and wonderful athletics day on Friday, thank you everyone you all need a big pat on the back.

Our weekly value is respect. I have spoken about respect several times, but what is respect?  Why is it that we show respect to someone but not others?

Most people find it hard to define respect, but let’s try …..

Respect is about accepting somebody for who they are, even when they are different.

Respect is being positive toward someone else.

We hold others in high esteem (we respect them) our grandparents are good examples of this.

Respect is showing care, concern or consideration for others needs or feelings

Simply being quiet when someone is on the phone, shows respect

Walking on the path and in cutting across the garden, show respect

Saying good morning, please and thank you are basic manners but also show respect

Respect is about making good decisions

People we respect have good qualities that we like and relate to, they

1. Listen (I know it sounds easy, but listening–truly listening–can be one of the hardest skills to master)
2. They encourage and Congratulate us
3. They are Helpful
4. And the say nice things

Doing and using these small but important words can be beneficial to you in countless ways. Even if others around you do not use these terms, I assure you that almost everyone around you – adults and peers alike – will notice and admire you for your use of these simple acts and words. 

My Friend, Chris

My friend, Chris, is a super nice guy. He is always positive, always interested in what I have to say and greets everyone with a big smile on his face. Chris has an upbeat spirit that you can feel when you were with him. Every time I am around Chris, I just feel better.

I have a lot of respect for Chris, he is a very good friend.

Whether you realize it or not, everyone – your parents, other relatives, teachers, neighbours, and, yes, even your own friends, will value your respectful behaviour.

It is simply a fact that people would much rather interact with those who are nice than those who are not.

Now, let’s do a simple respect test.

Each of these can be answered by a simple yes or no…be honest with yourself. Say it to yourself

• Do you smile at friends and family members when you meet them?
• Do you exercise, eat well, get plenty of sleep, this is self-respect?
• Do you look people in the eye when you are talking with them?
• Do you let your parents know that you appreciate them and all that they do for you?
• Do you offer to help with chores around the house or at school instead of waiting to be asked?
• Do you try your hardest to get better, especially in your learning? Again this is self-respect.
• Do you consistently say “please” and “thank you” to those around you?
• When leaving, an area or a phone call for example, do you say terms like ‘Have a nice day’?
• Do you hold the door open for others?
• Do you have a firm but welcoming handshake that you readily share when meeting someone new for the first time?

Did you say Yes to all 10?

Respect builds trust, confidence, honesty, wellbeing and self-esteem, not just in others, but more importantly in ourselves.

Thank you

Have a wonderful day.