“Contempt is conceived with expectations. Respect is conceived with expressions of gratitude. We can choose which one we will obsess over-expectations, or thanksgivings. That choice will result in a birth-and the child will be named either contempt, or respect.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Gary L. Thomas, the idea of choosing between contempt and respect is explored. Thomas suggests that contempt often arises from having expectations that are not met, while respect is cultivated through expressions of gratitude. By highlighting the importance of choosing between focusing on expectations or thanksgivings, Thomas emphasizes that our attitudes and behaviors towards others will ultimately shape our relationships, either birthing contempt or respect. This quote serves as a reminder of the power of gratitude in fostering positive relationships.
The Power of Gratitude in Fostering Respect
In this quote by Gary L. Thomas, the importance of gratitude in fostering respect is highlighted. By choosing to focus on expressing thanksgiving rather than fixating on expectations, we can shape our relationships and interactions in a more positive and respectful manner. This concept remains highly relevant today as we navigate the complexities of human connections in modern society.
Gary L. Thomas on Contempt and Respect
"“Contempt is conceived with expectations. Respect is conceived with expressions of gratitude. We can choose which one we will obsess over-expectations, or thanksgivings. That choice will result in a birth-and the child will be named either contempt, or respect.” - Gary L. Thomas"
Reflection Questions:
Contempt and respect are two contrasting emotions that can shape our relationships and interactions with others. Consider the following reflection questions as you contemplate the impact of expectations and gratitude in your own life:
In what ways do expectations influence my attitudes towards others? How can I shift towards a mindset of gratitude instead?
Am I more inclined to focus on what I believe others owe me, or am I quick to express thanks for their contributions and kindness?
How does the choice between contempt and respect manifest in my relationships, both personally and professionally?
Have there been instances where changing my perspective from expectations to gratitude has led to a more positive outcome or strengthened relationship?
What practical steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving and foster respect in my interactions with others?
Similar quotes
“We can no more justify using nonhumans as human resources than we can justify human slavery. Animal use and slavery have at least one important point in common: both institutions treat sentient beings exclusively as resources of others. That cannot be justified with respect to humans; it cannot be justified with respect to nonhumans—however “humanely” we treat them.”
“Any mature, spiritually sensitive view of marriage must be built on the foundation of mature love rather than romanticism. But this immediately casts us into a countercultural pursuit.”
“I think most of us who have been married for any substantial length of time realize that the romantic roller coaster of courtship eventually evens out to the terrain of a Midwest interstate - long, flat stretches with an occasional overpass.”
“There is a common emotion we all recognize and have not yet named—the happy anticipation of being able to feel contempt.”
“Animals are property. There are laws that supposedly protect animal interestsin being treated “humanely,” but that term is interpreted in large part to mean that we cannot impose “unnecessary” harm on animals, and that is measured by what treatment is considered as necessary within particular industries, and according to customs of use, to exploit animals. The bottom line is that animals do not have any respect-based rights in the way that humans have, because we do not regard animals as having any moral value. They have only economic value. We value their interests economically, and we ignore their interests when it is economically beneficial for us to do so.At this point in time, it makes no sense to focus on the law, because as long as we regard animals as things, as a moral matter, the laws will necessarily reflect that absence of moral value and continue to do nothing to protect animals. We need to change social and moral thinking about animals before the law is going to do anything more.”
“We bring nothing to God, and He gives us everything.”