Respect – Where has it gone? Aretha Franklin sang about it. We used to see it lived out around us. It seems these days as I watch and listen, that everyone wants it but few are willing to give it. When I was growing up, we were taught respect. Respect for Self, Respect for Others (persons), and Respect for Property (that of ours and others). It wasn’t a class we took in school, it was a life lesson that we learned by example, direction and correction. Instead of all the “I” and “me” that is heard today demanding respect, “we” learned it, taught it, and gave it.

Respect is not just for the person or persons who we feel deserve it. It’s not just for the “greatest of these” but also for the “least of these”. It’s for the positions those people hold, the parents, elders, teachers, veterans, law enforcement, neighbors, firefighters, grocery clerks, etc. etc. It’s for those lying in Arlington National Cemetery who fought and died for our great nation. It’s for the office of President of these United States – the great country we call ours. It’s the “golden rule” of living – treat others as we would like to be treated. The United States of America. United States – not Divided States.

One Nation Under God. Under God – not Above God.

Its’ not for the “me” but for the “we” that should draw us back to our roots. If you have ever had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., you will see that our country was founded “under GOD” and with His principles and values. When you visit the monuments, you will see many words written and God’s hand in them. Take a look at our currency. It says, “In God We Trust”. No matter what or in whom you believe, the facts are there. “In the beginning GOD created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1) and in the beginning of our great country, GOD blessed, guided, directed and protected. Our country was not founded upon the god of “self”!

We’re not a perfect people or a perfect country but I notice many trying to get in. However, I see no lines of people trying to get out. For those who won’t stand for our country, I wonder why. If they hate it so much, why don’t they leave for a country they feel would treat them better. Or better yet, why don’t they try to treat their country better by giving it respect. Then maybe they would feel better treated by it.

Let’s get back to a “we” focus instead of a “me” focus. Let’s get back to “united” instead of “divided”. Let’s look to the good of all instead of the desires of one. Let’s give a little respect and hopefully we will get a little in return. Let’s stand firm for our country and not bow down to self-indulgence. Let’s pledge allegiance to our flag and sing our national anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner” loudly and proudly.

Like another song says, “I’m Proud to be an American”!