The Importance of Being Respectful to Your Elders

There is a level of respect and deference that I feel should be given to those that are older and wiser than ourselves. They know things, and have experienced things, that some of us never will. Their time spent on this Earth deserves honor and respect.

I've seen many individuals treat older people, even their parents and grandparents, with disrespect and callousness. What happened to showing respect to your elders? We should be showing them every possible kindness. We should be thanking them for plowing the way and showing us the ways of the world.

Things we can do to show respect for our elders:

• Give up our seat for them
• Talk to them with appropriateness and dignity
• Use proper language and address them with respect
• Give assistance and offer our help whenever possible
• Listen to them and learn from them
• Treat them how we would want to be treated

{Listen by Jessica Swift}

What will you do today to show respect for your elders? What are other ways we can show deference?