Today I realized what the counter/opposite/balancing emotion, feeling or action is for the word RESPECT. The word is FEAR.
Fear vs Respect.
Every day I have stronger convictions that the world world hangs together because of the balance of nature. This is covered in the philosophy of YinYang which is a very significant part of TheCode and its understanding and application.
The importance of RESPECT and a relationship to LOVE and LUST is discussed HERE . There is a much more significant power to the word RESPECT when one relates RESPECT to FEAR.
We express our FEAR in many different ways. Consider the terrible situation that is escalating in the USA at this time. The FEAR that trump is inciting throughout the country is based on the FEAR of losing money/profits (GREED) or power (GREED) or superiority (RACE) or even perceived respect (ELITISM/SNOBISH/self-righteousness) or lack-of-understanding(IGNORANCE) or even a FEAR of change. All this FEAR is translated into anger, defiance, riots and mob action and used by trump to further strengthen his unbridled ego (being a total narcissist) and his adoring fans. He has created a “presidential idol” which now has a following of a large proportion of American voters who not only believe every lie that he utters but are even prepared to donate large sums of money to him to keep him going.
All of these FEARS can be redirected and handled with RESPECT. Respect any person for long enough to gain an understanding about where they are coming from. Why they believe what they do. Find out that the misunderstandings and/or misinformation which you were applying to that person, or situation, is NOT a threat to you, your family or beliefs. Understand that you did not need to act (or re-act) in any way. You have a CHOICE and possibly even an opportunity to correct someone else misinformation, misunderstanding or ignorance.
Turn all your FEARS in RESPECT with patience, tolerance and maybe support or even just silence and understanding.
Love vs. Hate.
The opposite of LOVE is HATE. Most religions advise that all situations can be resolved with LOVE. But it is very difficult to switch HATE to LOVE. There is very little personal satisfaction and usually lots of residual resentment which no amount of prayer can eliminate. However turning HATE into RESPECT and then resolving any issues with RESPECTFUL conversation or dialogue can go a long way towards a solution and will certainly avoid conflict and/or violence.
Jude