I am glad that people are realizing and articulating the two different types of respect. This is where I had hoped this would go!

I think Rhon summed up my own personal beliefs, beautifully, in her original post. I extend the respectful behaviour that everyone is entitled to whenever and wherever possible. I will hold a door for an 80 year old woman with a cane, just as much as I would extend the same courtesy for a pregnant woman or a group of 17 year old boys (I always listen closey for the 'Thank You' in every case, and I am frequently disappointed -- to which I declare in a loud friendly voice, 'YOU'RE WELCOME!'. Sheesh! What ever happened to manners??). The other variety of 'respect' -- honour and esteem, etc. -- I am happy to bestow when earned. Unfortunately, this list is pretty short. Perhaps I set the bar too high. Ah well ... I suppose that makes the winning of my respect even more special!

Don't look now, but it seems as if Rhon and Euphorion may have finally agreed on something (at least the fundamentals, anyways)!

there is a difference between treating people with respect, and respecting them. I treat everyone with respect - or at least I try to.
~rhon831
I assume by this, you mean extending good manners?

i agree it is always good to be polite and cautious to unknowns, especially people.
~Euphorion

True respect - however - is earned. Respect being admiration or esteem for another person.
~rhon831

honor is granted through merit.
~Euphorion
I assume that you honor and true respect mean the same thing to you, Euphorion?

I must say, I am completely thrown! If things have actually reached a point where rhon and Euphorion can agree on something, then may faith in the balance of the universe is shaken!

I think I need to go speak with a priest. No wait! A scientist! Umm ... a Rabi? Uh, a Budhist! No wait! -- ??!! Maybe I'll just settle for a cup o' coffee and a cigarette.

(Tee-hee! I hope you both know, I'm just teasing ya's! )

Deanna

To strive, to seek, to find and not to yield

Actually, from what I've read, the difference is the way we approach new people - I assume everyone is worthy of respect and will attempt to show common courtesies regardless, and (if I've read him correctly), Euphorion assumes that most people aren't, but will be as polite as necessary, for as long as it suits him.

politeness until otherwise merited (or as long as it fits your purposes).
respect ONLY after it has been earned and tested.

(my apologies in advance if I've mis-understood your meaning.)

As for manners from others - you never know where it will come from. As a young, pregnant commuter on the NY city subway system, I would stand crushed in the rush hour crowds. Was I offered a seat by middle-aged men, whose wive may have been in a similar situation , or who, presumably, were raised in a more 'chivalrous' era - NO. Was I offered a seat by women, who might possible have been able to relate to my situation? NO. I was offered a seat, almost every time, by "ethnic" (African or Hispanic-American) young men, in 'street' dress, who should, according to common, incorrect stereotype, have been the last to help out.

But I'll join you in a cup of tea, anyway!

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Never underestimate the predictability of stupidity. -- "Snatch"