Respect for the Resilient Hearts of Humble and Kind Individuals

Respect is a fundamental virtue that binds us to one another, transcending all barriers of race, religion, and culture. It is rooted in the actions and character of those we admire most. In this piece, we explore the group of people who hold our highest esteem and the qualities that make them worthy of our respect.

The Essence of Resilient Hearts

Among all the groups of people we hold in high regard, those who embody resilience and humility stand out. They maintain hope and perseverance even in the face of immediate gratification, and they continue to see the good in others despite those individuals seeming worthless. They retain the ability to understand and take accountability for their choices, whether minor or significant. These individuals are also remarkably tough on the outside yet capable of showing vulnerability and humanity to a select few.

They are not immune to the adversities life throws at them, but they are not hardened by experience, circumstances, pain, or despair. Instead, they maintain a sharp-edged cynicism and despair while still seeking to access their human connections and find common ground with others, often from a place of humility.

The Aristocracy of Respect

The value of respect cannot be overstated. It is a two-way street where one must give and receive respect equally. This means showing respect to everyone, especially to those who respect you, including younger individuals, as it helps them learn the importance of mutual respect.

Some groups are particularly deserving of respect because of the inherent challenges they face. These include:

Nation: Respect your nation, as it is the foundation on which you build your life and community. National Leaders: Acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by your national leaders in maintaining stability and progress. Physically Handicapped/Disabled Persons: Show compassion and respect toward these individuals who face daily challenges with dignity and grace. Orphans: Offer support and respect to orphans who often face a unique set of adversities without a biological family. Parents and Grandparents: Honor and respect your elders for their wisdom, guidance, and sacrifices.

In addition to these, there is an extraordinary group of individuals who are humble and kind. Regardless of their origins, these people stand tall in their humanity and kindness. They are the Asian-American community, for instance, who have endured numerous hardships yet remain a peaceful and civilized group.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Asian-Americans possess a rich history and a long and documented struggle as a minority. Despite this, they are known for their peaceful nature and kind demeanor. In predominantly white countries, however, it is still common to see disdain and ignorance towards Asians. This is evidenced by the use of Asian slurs and discriminatory playground chants, which, despite being hurtful, often go unchallenged.

The lack of standing up for Asian individuals is particularly stark compared to other minority groups. While there is some outrage over hurtful remarks and jokes, they do not reach the same level of concern until they resonate with mainstream entertainment, such as the release of an Asian Barbie doll with more realistic features by a major company like Disney. This highlights the underlying issue of prioritizing visibility over equity in the fight for respect and inclusivity.

Reflecting on my experience as a proud parent of an Asian-American boy, I am deeply saddened by the disrespect and lack of understanding shown by young individuals towards Asian culture and people. Despite these challenges, Asian-Americans continue to maintain their civility and peace. It is only through our collective efforts that we can elevate their status and ensure they receive the respect they deserve.

Let us continue to advocate for and include the voices and contributions of these resilient, humble, and kind individuals in our fight for fairness and respect, not just as a movement but as a global imperative.