R-E-S-P-E-C-T

I'm big on respect. Giving it, receiving it. I get irritated when people don't respond to a text where a question was asked. I abhor instances when drivers don't let pedestrians cross in front of them in parking lots. Even more upset when pedestrians don't give the "thanks" wave. And don't get me started on people who stand in the middle of the isle or stop right in front of you. But I digress.

So I'm really struggling with the hate and disrespect towards the President right now. Hear me out. I know he is not saying or doing things right. I know what everyone thinks of him and how he is performing. I am not a fan. But let's imagine, just for a minute, that we were in his shoes. Every single thought, comment, movement is scrutinized by the media and the public. And this happens to every President. This is not a discussion for comparisons, only my thoughts on how Presidents are treated. Can you imagine if every tweet (which, let's be honest, should be removed from the Oval Office) every handshake, every interaction with your spouse was put on display? How would you look? I wouldn't look so great. I would look like the sinner I am.

Should everyone agree with the President's agenda and Philosophy? No. Should people be able to voice their opinions to the contrary? Absolutely. But there is a way to do it. And refusing to meet with the man is probably not the best way to get your agenda heard or recognized. I see and hear about so many people who refuse to meet with him or anyone on his team. When have we ever had a compromise or a resolution when there wasn't a discussion?? How can two sides ever agree, or agree to disagree, if they don't hear both sides?

I think we are basically all acting like kids. And I really don't want to hear how "I will show respect when he does". Really? Be the bigger person. Be the example. Be the person you say you are. Show the world that, even though others aren't willing to work together, you are. Don't return hate with hate. Don't immediately assume someone doesn't understand or care. Honestly, just don't hate. It's wrong and stupid and lame. It's killing us. Literally and figuratively.