March 9 – Building Bridges, Not Walls: The Power of Respect in a Globalized World

“Respect is how to treat everyone.” Richard Branson

“Life in a human community requires that we have a basic respect for our fellow persons,” shares Alexandra Hudson in her book, The Soul of Civility. Respect transcends borders and cultures, playing a vital role in promoting peace and understanding on a global scale. Humans possess the ability to respect and appreciate different cultures, traditions, and beliefs, fostering a sense of unity amidst diversity. This respect allows individuals to engage in meaningful dialogue, resolve conflicts peacefully, and work towards a shared vision of a better world. Computers and technology, while capable of processing vast amounts of information, lack the emotional intelligence and cultural understanding necessary to truly respect and appreciate the diversity of our global society.

This respect fosters a sense of unity in diversity.  Imagine a world where international collaboration tackles global challenges like climate change. Scientists from across the globe, each with their own cultural backgrounds, come together with a shared vision of a healthier planet.  Respect allows them to listen, learn, and build upon each other's ideas, leading to groundbreaking solutions.

Think about international peace talks.  Respectful dialogue between opposing sides creates a safe space for compromise and understanding.  It allows for the exploration of each other's perspectives, paving the way for peaceful resolutions that benefit everyone.

“We are all equal in the fact that we are all different. We are all the same in the fact that we will never be the same. We are united by the reality that all colours and all cultures are distinct and individual. We are harmonious in the reality that we are all held to this earth by the same gravity. We don’t share blood, but we share the air that keeps us alive.” C. JoyBell C.

In his book, How to Know a Person, David Brooks states, “As a society, we have failed to teach the skills and cultivate the inclination to treat each other with kindness, generosity, and respect.” So, how do we cultivate this global respect?  It starts with a shift in perspective. Let's embrace the inherent value in every culture.  Seek out opportunities to learn about different traditions, perhaps through cultural festivals or educational programs.  Engage in respectful conversations with people from diverse backgrounds, actively listening to their experiences and viewpoints.

“Give to every other human being every right that you claim for yourself.” Thomas Paine

Remember, respect is a two-way street.  When we show respect to others, we inspire them to show respect in return.  Technology can be a powerful tool in this endeavor.  Online platforms can connect people from across the globe, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.  Social media, when used responsibly, can be a platform for positive dialogue about global issues.

Building a world of respect is an ongoing process.  There will be disagreements, misunderstandings will occur.  But by fostering open communication, actively listening to one another, and celebrating our differences, we can create a global community that thrives.  Let respect be the guiding light on our path towards a more peaceful, prosperous, and united world. In the book, The Wisdom of Morrie, Rob and Morrie Schwarz write, ”When you have a strong sense of our common humanity, you feel respect for everyone, and responsibility to preserve the entire human community. Your ‘I’ becomes part of the ‘we’ and your self interweaves with all the selves that constitute humankind.”

Global Exchange Activity: Participate in a program that connects you with individuals from different cultures. This could be through online platforms, virtual exchange programs, or even immersive travel experiences, allowing you to learn firsthand about different ways of life and build meaningful connections.

In today's increasingly digital world, it's easy to lose sight of what makes us human. The constant bombardment of screens and social media can distract us from cultivating essential qualities like kindness, empathy, and resilience.

My book, Nurturing Hopeful Resilience, guides parents and caregivers through the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven age. It explores the importance of instilling strong values in children from a young age to help them develop into compassionate, responsible, and fulfilled individuals.

Through a series of practical exercises and insightful reflections, this book delves into fourteen core values: curiosity, awareness, kindness, learning, self-awareness, fairness, playfulness, compassion, service, belonging, trustworthiness, authenticity, community, and responsibility. Understanding and nurturing these values can empower our children to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.

This book offers a roadmap for raising children who are academically successful, emotionally intelligent, socially adept, and morally grounded. It encourages readers to prioritize human connection, empathy, and compassion over material possessions and fleeting digital distractions. By embracing the power of values, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.