When Respect Is Real

Respect is simple.

It’s not flattery.  It’s not revisionist politeness.  It’s not praise delivered after damage.

Real respect is demonstrated in how you speak about someone when they’re not present.  It’s demonstrated in how you handle disagreement.  It’s demonstrated in whether you elevate the profession — or try to compete through commentary.

If someone says they respect you, but their behavior tells a different story, believe the behavior.

Words are easy.  Patterns are honest.