Though the song was originally written and first performed by Otis Redding in 1965, the mega-hit Respect did not reach the top of the charts, and did not become one of the world’s greatest known anthems from his work.  It was only when the song was given a new perspective and performed by the one and only Aretha Franklin that it spoke to the hearts and minds of people across the globe.

But over 50 years later, R-E-S-P-E-C-T is in short supply these days, especially from the most senior leadership in the United States.  Whether one supports or opposes President Donald Trump, few would hold him up as a role model for how their children should behave.  No matter one’s personal opinions of Trump’s latest victim of attack, the controversial Omarosa Manigault Newman, comments like this about the former White House senior staffer should give each of us pause…

 

There used to be a line. A line we as people had to draw for ourselves, and say “This is not me. This is not acceptable. This is not the example I want to set for my kids, or for the next generation.

As the Trump era continues to erode our common values, one is left to wonder… once they’re gone, can we ever get them back?  Will Respect Ever Matter Again??

Right now in 2018, it remains an open question.

 

Sending love, prayers and respect to the one and only Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.  

 

“We all require and want respect, man or woman, black or white. It’s our basic human right.”  

– Aretha Franklin