I'm not a particularly religious person nowadays, although I was brought up originaly in the Russian Orthodox Church and subsequently Roman Catholic. Mt beliefs are my own and I would not wish to explain them, let alone push them, onto anyone else. I do not believe respect needs to be earned. We should respect all things and all people but, whereas it need not be gained, it can be easily lost! Those people who abuse my trust and respect will often get a second chance but not many more.

As to respecting people who respect you. Well, that is the easy bit! Anyone here read the book of Job? A very unusual little story even for the old testament. As well as having God and the Devil discussing, as equals, the trials of humans we also see the 'human' side of both these dieties when they make a bet with the unfortunate Job being the focus of their games. That aside it makes a very good point. It is easy to believe (or respect or tollerate) when all is going well. What about when things go wrong though? Can you respect those who preach hate and war? Can you tollerate those who would destroy you for your beliefs?

I don't think I can. I would like to think I could at least keep quiet about it but should I? If I can see it is blatantly wrong should I stand up and say so? What if it is ME that is wrong? Then again what if it isn't...

I'd rather live my own life if you don't mind...

:D