respect

So you think you're important? And.... what about everyone else? How do you relate to things which are greater than you? The Earth, the Sea, the Sun, the Air? God (or goddess)?

Respect doesn't mean to allow yourself to be walked upon or submissive. It means you see everyone as an equal. From the child, to the animal, to the tree, to the centipede. Seeing everyone as an equal doesn't mean to gloss over failings or be self-delusional.

To be witness to a giant thunderstorm is to be humbled by the beauty and immensity of Nature. If you do not respect these forces will cut you down to size, as they should. They pre-date you, they are bigger than you, your life depends on them. They do not depend on you.

RESPECT.