This term, we are once again starting our assemblies by exploring "The Virtues To Live By."
The first virtue being respect/ courtesy.
Pope Francis has often suggested three little words to families, to make daily life more beautiful. The first word: "please" is not just a matter of good education— says the Pope—but a sign of concern for others, a way that we can express our care and our love for our parents and siblings. Even Jesus knocks at our door, asking permission and patiently waiting for us to open. The second word is "thank you," God help us if we do not learn to be grateful, to say thank you, to recognise the good that we do for each other in the family. How many times do you say "thank you" to Mum and Dad for all that they give you? Finally, the third word is "sorry." The Pope knows that this word is hard to say; but he reminds us that it is necessary, if we want to stop evil with good.
Being respectful and courteous helps people feel valued and appreciated. All people of every culture and race, age and sex should be respected. Rules in our school help to guide us to respect each other in what we do and say. When we respect ourselves and our world we are fulfilling our role of stewardship in God’s world.
A good way to practice respect and courtesy is to think about how you would like to be treated and then treat others that way. You treat others’ space and their belongings with respect. You listen to what they are saying without interrupting. You speak with kind, quiet, polite words to others. Your behaviour shows that you are considerate of others feelings. It is expressing your opinion as an opinion, respectful of the fact that there is more than one point of view.
