Everyone has dignity and worth, but most people have no idea what that means. They only know that sometimes they don't feel respected. So, what should people do if they feel their dignity has been violated?
First, let's talk about the concept of dignity and worth.
Every human has dignity and worth. Everyone you meet has dignity and worth. YOU have dignity and worth. Let that sink in. Think about what that statement means to you.
Dignity is a state of being. We all have dignity whether we choose to act with dignity or not. Lots of people do not act with dignity. You should choose to act with dignity.
What this means is, everyone is unique. Everyone has value and is important. Everyone. "Dignity is the belief that our basic humanity is shared with every other person on this planet." (see: https://globaldignity.org/our-story/)
Everyone you meet has worth. Just by existing, they matter. You know you matter. At least I hope you do. "A life of dignity means you are as valuable and important, worthy and wanted, as any other human being. It means, fundamentally, that you matter." The same is true of everyone.
The problem is, not everyone acts as if everyone matters. Some people do not act with dignity towards others. They demean and dehumanize people to justify their own bad behavior. When this happens, we feel it in our souls. We feel as if our dignity has been violated.
What you need to know is that NO ONE can take away your dignity. You have dignity if you act with dignity. So what should you do if you feel someone has violated your dignity?
First, remember that they have not taken away your dignity. You are in control of your own dignity.
Second, decide whether or not you need to respond. Often, you don't. The problem isn't you, it is the other person who is behaving in an undignified way. They aren't recognizing their fellow humans as people with dignity. That is on them. It has nothing to do with you, even if it was directed at you. If they haven't really harmed you because they haven't taken away your dignity, often the best course is to just feel sorry for them and continue on being the awesome dignified person you are.
If, they are doing something to harm you or others, then action may be required. In this case, decide what a good realistic outcome would be. You may not be able to change them, but what can you do to stop them from doing real harm to others? Focus on that and choose to act in a way that amplifies love and compassion and truth and justice. And in so doing, you will not only help yourself, you will be helping to transform the world.
No comments:
Post a Comment