How we regard each other is quite important to me. I believe we owe a measure of respect to every human being we meet, whether that person is family, a major community or business leader, or a panhandler. Without a basic level of respect, groups can’t function. Without respect, teams can’t function! The purpose of teamwork is not to make everyone on the team think alike. Teamwork respects differences between people and depends on this diversity to help the team accomplish a common goal.
At this time of the year, many chapters have just completed elections and have installed new officers who are entrusted with holding the chapter accountable at each meeting, facilitating discussion, supporting all members, and seeing that interesting programs and awards for every success are provided. These volunteers were chosen by the group to run the team. Hold them in the high regard they deserve!
When respect breaks down within a chapter, our differences can destroy us. Being open to the strengths and weaknesses of others and finding ways to blend our diverse skills allows us to be more successful. I love the following quote from C. William Pollard, chairman of the ServiceMaster Company: “Diversity without unity makes about as much sense as dishing up flour, sugar, water, eggs, shortening and baking powder on a plate and calling it a cake.” The ingredients, when combined in the best way, are transformed!
Today, no every day, I encourage you to be respectful of others. While you don’t need to like everyone on your team or socialize with them, you must respect their right to be on the team with you. By respecting and trusting one another, teammates are able to blend their individual skills and talents with those of the rest of the team. That’s what allows the team to be stronger than the individual members.
Respect is perhaps the greatest gift we can share with one another!
By Dorothy Parsons November 13, 2017
Thank you for such encouraging words!
By Arlene September 18, 2017
Respect for family members is a factor that cannot be overlooked. Often a member can throw a bad karma that will envelop the most innocent members of the family.
By Judy Culbertson September 6, 2017
Amen! Well said!! I will be reading this at my next chapter meeting.
By Regina Barrett August 29, 2017
Thank you so much for this important reminder to all. Respect can not be bought or sold, but every person has the ability to give and receive. I haven’t been able to get on the site for some time now, but I am glad I was led to share this message today. We have a holiday Monday, but I will have a copy at our next meeting.
By Janet Pratt August 28, 2017
Well written Barb. I have shared with our Facebook groups and pages. I feel everyone should read this. Take care!
By Patricia aaamcGarrigle August 24, 2017
How true11 Our Tops chapter members all respect each other and everyone has something to contribute. Each of us has something to help our chapter become great. One may be artistic, another may be musically inclined, another may sew well, and some may lead well, etc. Thanks Barb for such an encouraging ” Moment of Truth”. You are doing a great job!!!
By Dianne Connerly August 22, 2017
Amen Barb! What an inspiring and uplifting “Moment of Truth” Thank you for sharing.
By Georgianna Price August 21, 2017
THis is what our COUNTRY needs‼️‼️
THanks for the encouragement ‼️‼️.
By Mildred Hall August 21, 2017
As usual, Barb, you’ve come up with a great subject which we all, in and out of TOPS, must abide by. Respect for one another is of the utmost importance at this time in the whole country and I don’t know anyone who could’ve said it better. Bravo!!
By Jean clow August 21, 2017
Thank you for sharing I think if all groups would do the same we could this world a better place.
By Deneice Fisher August 21, 2017
More respect, less stress. Such a wonderful message as we all strive in our journey. Thanks for caring and sharing.
By Lillian Cotie August 21, 2017
What an excellent article! Each person should take this article and read every morning as they start their day. Respect and Positivity would then encompass everyone.
By Patricia Ahern August 21, 2017
Thank you for encouraging words. I agree we all need each other, as we know it takes a village.