GLENDON RHOADES

Editor’s note: The following is a response to Natalie Serafini’s article, “I solemnly swear: Why cursing in front of kids shouldn’t be verboten,” published in last week’s issue of the Sheaf.

“Respect” is more than a Grammy’s song from the ’60s. Respect is about caring enough to interact with people around you in a manner that shows consideration for the individual — a stunning concept, I know.

Lack of respect is why this country has to throw unrighteous amounts of money at problems like bullying, hate crimes, violence, self-esteem and depression issues, racism, etc., etc., etc.

So what’s respect got to do with dropping the F-bomb every time something gives you a slight startle? Or splattering conversations about last week’s ball game with references to fecal matter? Absolutely nothing. That’s the problem.

Collectively, Canadians care enough about minorities to ban major publications that carry the possibility of offending them. Why do we do this? Respect. Because of our consideration for the feelings of another person.

As individuals, however, many of us toss out rape jokes regardless of how such talk might affect the people around us. We spout off “goddamn” like it’s a generic adjective (even in this publication, apparently) without the least bit of concern for the religious convictions of our audience. Seriously, I’m not Muslim, but I still care enough about that sector of the population that I wouldn’t dream of introducing nouns using the term “Allah-f–king.”

…And then we contemplate whether we should share this inconsiderate approach to communication with the impressionable minds of our kids.

Or someone else’s kids.

Is it really that hard to see the issue here? Showing respect in conversation is one of the easiest, most immediate ways to respect those around us. If we can’t even bring ourselves to the simplest level of consideration for another person, how do we have a chance of carrying on as a successful and supportive society?

I mean, come on, I’m not asking for sirs and ma’ams; just don’t friggin’ cuss at my kids!