R E S P E C T

The first lesson I ever remember learning was that consistency is the key to respect. It became a mantra of mine, back when the realization came to me. It was back in high school. I knew each teacher I could scheme out of collecting homework, punishment, grades, anything if I applied the right effort. Though their classes were my favorite, I had not an ounce of respect for these teachers. When I was applying to colleges, I realized that the references I wanted most were from the teachers who never wavered, never compromised, never made a fool of themselves. Their consistency was what gained my respect.

I have since let this theory of mine fade into a commonality I assumed everyone had realized- "common sense" if you will. The problem is, it is not common sense. More and more, I am meeting people of authority who lack any kind of consistency. How did they get there? How did they get into a place of authority or affluence? I assume too much of the world has settled. We have realized that the people who have worked hard to earn respect are few. We have learned that if we work for one who is consistent, he is going to expect us to be consistent. We have come to terms with resentfully respecting positions over people. Having settled over and over again, we have created monsters- inconsistent fools bumbling about demanding respect. Let's be honest, it may not be "right", but the reality is that the most effective way to be respected is to earn it. Not demand it. Earn it. Perhaps if we all buy into this theory of mine, the world wont have to keep settling.