Of all the virtues respect is the super virtue.I wrote these rules in anticipation that our Values in Action! schools would incorporporate them into their classrooms and schools to create an enviroment of respectfulness. Practice them daily and you will make a difference!

Gene Bedley

Rules for Respect

1. Everyone has dignity and worth. Human beings are valuable and unique. "Each person is an unrepeatable miracle woven together like no other person!"

2. Acknowledge and validate others feeling and ideas. "Kindnesss is the language the deaf can hear and the blind can see!"

3. Focused eye contact and the ability to repeat what others share demonstrates active listening. "The first step to effective listening is to stop talking!"

4. When exchanging ideas with another person seek first to understand by asking clarifying questions. "Seek first to understand then be understood!"

5. Recognize that your body language communicates as much as your words. "Your actions speak so loud people can't hear you!"

6. Recognize that every person has something to teach "To teach is to learn, to listen is to learn more!"

7. The way you treat others is proof of the respect you have for yourself "Treat others the way you want to be treated!"

8. Express generosity and kindness to those in need. "Love never fails"

© 2004 Gene Bedley