The virtue of respect is demonstrated by being courteous and civil and treating everyone in a manner that acknowledges and honors their essential human dignity.

An important but often neglected aspect of respect is listening to what others have to say.

Respectful listening is more than hearing. It requires us to actually consider what's being said. That's hard when we've heard it before, aren't interested, or don't think much of the person talking. It's even worse when we act like we're listening but are really waiting for our turn to speak.

The fact is, most of us don't listen very well, certainly not all the time, and especially with people closest to us. Kids are especially adept at tuning out their parents, but parents are equally skilled at ignoring or dismissing as foolish or irrelevant what their kids have to say.

Disrespect is most apparent when others ignore or patronize us. Like when they roll their eyes or betray fake interest by vacantly staring or letting their gaze wander.

We all want to know that what we say and think matters. But if we want others to care about what we say, we need to care about what they say. Like all the important virtues, we teach respect best by demonstrating it.

So listen up! It'll make people feel better, and you may even learn something.

This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.