Respect

Respect can be defined as showing regard or consideration for something or someone or demonstrating proper acceptance or appropriate courtesy. Showing respect for others is not something that is terribly difficult for most individuals. Generally speaking, it is a matter of correct behavior or incorrect behavior. However, it appears that on so many levels, a lack of respect has been forthcoming. We see athletes being disrespectful of opposing team members, referees, and even colleagues. Countless times, we hear of students being disrespectful in classrooms toward their teachers. Rude and disrespectful patrons loudly talk and interrupt others while in a crowded theater. Moreover, young men and old refuse to remove their hats and be quiet while the national anthem is played before a game at a stadium. Is this a sign of the times? Are people just prone to being disrespectful? Are we teaching and setting poor examples for generations to come? Unfortunately, disrespect and lack of respect has become all too common if you ask me. I have compiled a list of what I believe to be the top five most disrespectful acts in the last few years. It is plain to see that acting disrespectful is more widespread than it should be.

Kanye West

During a 2005 NBC television benefit for Hurricane Katrina victims, Kanye West used his turn to speak and commented, "George Bush doesn't care about black people." In my opinion, this was extremely disrespectful to the president. A television broadcast designed to help unfortunate victims of a hurricane was neither the time nor forum to voice a personal opinion of this nature. We all have opinions and in many instances they should be kept silent.

Cynthia McKinney

In March of 2006, Cynthia McKinney, a U.S. congresswoman at the time, struck a Capitol Hill police officer. This was done at a security check point. McKinney claimed that that the officer mishandled her as he stopped her from entering the facility. The officer stated that she was not wearing the official pin that all congress members are issued. Clearly McKinney did not have to hit the officer. This was disrespectful in my opinion. I had the distinct privilege of visiting the same checkpoint as I was preparing to take a private tour of the nation's capitol. Basically, the officers doing security at this location are simply helping to keep the capitol safe and I saw no need for a congresswoman to physically abuse an officer for doing his job.

Kanye West, again

It seems that Kanye West simply needs a lesson in manners. Once again, he used the public spotlight to disrespect someone. Kanye, out of nowhere, grabbed the microphone from Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. Kanye has a serious problem in my opinion. All of his great talents and service will be easily forgotten if he continues to behave in such a juvenile manner.

Muntather Zaidi

At first the name might not ring a bell, but this journalist produced one of the most offensive acts I have ever witnessed. In a horrible act of defiance, Zaidi actually threw his shoes at President Bush in December of 2008. This disrespectful act was an embarrassment to many of his Iraqi countrymen and certainly angered many Americans. There is never a place for this type of disrespectful behavior at any level. For his actions, Zaidi spent time in Iraqi prison.

Joe Wilson

Congressman Joe Wilson from South Carolina violated well-established house etiquette by shouting at President Obama during his September 2009 speech to congress. Wilson shouted, "You lie." This was appallingly disrespectful and Wilson later apologized. Many of his own Republican Party members denounced his poor behavior. The office of president deserves more respect and dignity and Wilson certainly could have acted more appropriately. Despite our personal beliefs and opinions, we need to always be civil. There is always a proper time and place for childish behavior. The floor of congress is not the time nor the place.