Respect

Aretha Franklin sang about it, volumes of books have been written about it and kitchy little sayings dot the internet referring to it –respect.

The Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary defines the word thusly: ‘to consider worthy of high regard.’

Quite an ideal to live up to. Yet, writers are guilty of giving respect to everyone but themselves. I shan’t go on and on about lofty ideals, but I want to impress on everyone a single, simple thought--respect yourself first.

This bit of rave was brought on by a writer in a group I’m part of during the week. In sending his most recent installment for the group to review, he called his work ‘drivel’. It struck me the wrong way. This man is so talented I’m a bit jealous, if I say so myself, at his amazing ability to draw the reader into his story.

The group discussed the issue most writers have is to downplay their abilities. In a world where people’s athletic abilities are revered over intelligence, writing has fallen to the bottom of the list as a desired profession. It becomes necessary for us to respect ourselves and our abilities. Being able to sit down and string words together comprehensibly to entertain others is very worthy of respect.

Many talk about being writers. Few actually take up the pen and make it happen. There will always be critics ready to point out faults. We need to connect with each other and support our passion.

Buy yourself a latte and realize just how amazing you are. Respect yourself.