The 3rd Step: Expressing Respect
to Those Who Are Worthy of Our Respect
One of the most difficult jobs in the world to do is the job of teaching the idea of what is right and what is wrong. And because of that, whoever is able to teach us to see what is right should be someone we will always respect and pay homage to for our whole lives.
One can prevent from committing wrong judgement by not associating with those who are "Fools." One is planted with the right view when associating with the wise. He is able to maintain this by showing his respect, high praises, and adoration to those whom are worthy of respect.
Those who are worthy of our respect are the ones whose qualities are those that we should aspire to do. They are not only able to be examples we can follow, but they are able to teach us to understand the following:
1. The giving of alms does bear fruit.
2. The giving of aid does bear fruit.
3. Respecting those who are worthy of our respect does bear fruit.
4. Good and evil deeds do bear fruit.
5-6 The reality of 'this world' and the 'hereafter' exists.
7-8 The debt of gratitude owed to one's parents exists.
9. The reality of heaven and hell exists.
10. "Arahants" do exist.
In other words, the 'Right View' is the truth of the world and life. This higher knowledge is harder to persuade because it is beyond our mundane thinking or comprehension. As a result, planting or training people the right view is more difficult than any other profession or training in the world.
The one who possesses and is able to train others in the right view habitually maintains precepts (silā), concentration (samādhi), wisdom ((pañña), and is considered more able than us. For example, such persons are the Lord Buddha or the Enlightened One, monks who are complete with precepts and virtues, kings who practice the "10 Sovereign Virtues,*² as well as our teachers, leaders, parents, older relatives, or any other knowledgeable adults who perform acts of good moral conduct and are steadfast in their righteousness.
Respecting those who are worthy of our respect does bear fruit. Paying homage to those high with virtue can lead us to notice their good characteristics and positive thinking. We should attempt to accrue these virtues as well. As a result, our mind will be clear, clean, and bright all the time. Thus practicing the path of accomplishment (iddhipāda) is unfolded.
Aspiration (Chanda): We are inspired (by those wor-thy ones) to follow in their footsteps.
Exertion (Viriya) : We persevere (because of those worthy ones) to devote ourselves to do good deeds regardless of any hardship.
Dedication (Citta): We are completely focused on our works and never leave them unfinished in between.
Examination (Vamamsā): We develop ourselves to be more virtuous through self-development.
In conclusion, respecting those who are worthy of our respect can lead to a life with greater virtue,benefit, and success.
