THE YOUNG DESERVES RESPECT TOO

Respect is not just a courteous expression of regard to an elder or some behaviour intended to please parents. In many African cultures, total [or partial] disregard of respect towards the young [especially children in this sense] is exhibited by the people. In actual sense, and subjectively, that is not the true nature of respect. This same respect they say, is reciprocal; of course it is a cliche from western culture but it is a valid statement. If respect is reciprocal then the young [especially children] being brought up to respect elders must also be respected. In fact, a one year old kid has the particular respect he/she deserves, and when this is not rendered, then it could be necessary to subject the situation to an investigation about possible abuse of the child.

Showing respect to the young builds up their self-esteem and the bitter truth is that one of the necessary qualities needed to achieve some set goals in life and make dreams “come true” is self-esteem. In short, a young one allergic to low self-esteem would never do anything capable of questioning his/her integrity.
It does not end there, the young (children) should be treated with empathy too. As they are being taught to show respect to anyone irrespective of age, understanding should be shown when they express their feelings, at times, they should be allowed earlier chances to do things even if elders are around to do the same thing and they should be allowed to take some central roles when they feel like. This gives them another necessary quality needed to achieve greatness —sense of belonging.

Yes! Respect is not just a courteous expression of regard to an elder or some behaviour intended to please parents alone, respect also means showing empathy towards the young (children).

Kolade Chris (Ksound)
(Christmas967@gmail.com),
A lover of the young.