In the same vein, there are many factors involved in making and keeping our relationships strong and solid. These factors are what I call the OILS OF RELATIONSHIP.

No man is created to stand-alone. In the journey of life and the fulfilment of our God-ordained vision, dreams, destinies and purposes, we need other people in our lives for its realization.

We can only be as strong as the connections and associations that we keep. No man is an island. One of the factors that I will talk about in this article is the OIL OF RESPECT.

Respect is a virtue that is gradually being eroded and lacking in our society today. Lack of regard or respect in a relationship will cause the death of such.

It simply shows that you are not important nor of any value to him/her.
Respect shows in our speech and action.

No relationship blossoms in an atmosphere of disrespect. Respect strengthens our relationships. It is the bedrock of any healthy relationship. Respect makes you partake of the hidden treasures of any relationship.

Respect builds trust, safety and well-being. It opens doors. Respect makes you selfless and think about the other parties. You respect what you love, value, cherish and hold in high esteem.

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Respect in any relationship should be mutual and not unilateral. A person that naturally lacks respect or regards for others lacks self-respect and is selfish. You cannot give what you do not have.

Lack of self-respect is traced to LACK OF self-realization, self-acceptance and self-love. Self-realization is the discovery of your innate potential and opportunities that are opened to you which you will learn to accept, embrace, and make full proof of.

Self-realization or discovery gives birth to self-worth, self-esteem, self-confidence, self-respect and self-love. When you have learnt to accept, respect and love yourself, you show the same to other people.

Respect is a trait or attribute that you should look for in any relationship. A person that does not have any regard for your person, your space, your boundary, your potential, is a potential danger to your total wellbeing.

Remember, respect is reciprocal. There is a sign in Sao Joao da Barra (a municipality located in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro) saying “respect if you want to be respected”.

… To be continued next Thursday

Exclusive with:

Pastor Busola Afolayan. She is a Family and Relationship Life Coach. She is the Senior Pastor of Glory Impact Christian Centre & Host of THIS IS MY REALITY TALK SHOW.