Not So Golden
While I am looking for a new full time job I started doing several part time jobs so that I can generate some type of income. One of those jobs that I am doing is substitute teaching at our school district’s K-8 schools.
Now I know how it is when students have a sub, I still remember how I used to act when I had one! But I have found that the students now a day, especially at the middle school level, have taken things to a whole new level. While they still try to get one over on the substitute as much as they possibly can (just like I did!), the level of disrespect towards not only the teacher (me) but also the other students is at a level I have never witnessed.
Many of the students put each other down swiftly, and embarrass their peers in front of others as much as they can. They talk back to the teachers/me in such a way that if we were outside of the school I would turn and walk away from them (or if I had a different personality I would probably go off on them using words that I normally never use! Ha!). Many students have no regard for authority and are more than willing to go to the office to uphold this belief. Apparently whatever home life they have the parent (s) support the behavior because even when their guardians are notified nothing changes regarding their behavior at the school.
What about at your workplace? Have you ever seen co-workers or bosses act disrespectfully towards others – or even you?
As a Real Christian Businessman, we have to not only ‘turn the other cheek’ when this happens, but do so without stooping to the level of disrespect that the other person is being. I want to “tell these young students a thing or to”, and I end up doing so, but in a way and tone that lets them know who the authority is yet without being disrespectful towards them.
It’s been hard for me to treat these young people with respect when they are not being respectful to me. Nonetheless I have been able to take “the high road” fairly consistently so far (I better get a full time job soon though!).
Take my example of working in the schools to remember the golden rule of all Bible verses and make sure you do your best to respond with respect towards others in your workplace, even if they are not being respectful towards you.
It is the basis of what Jesus taught while he was here. And as difficult as it is to do sometimes, it is the basis for how we are to act towards others.
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Luke 6:31 (NIV)