Treating others with dignity and respect

I recently spent some time with an ill family member at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. (In fact we're here again, so please pray for my family...) I found these "30 tips to promote dignity and respect" there. The philosophy they embody are worded from a secular point of view, but it seems that they "fit" quite well with the pattern laid out by Jesus, don't you think?

1. Sweat the small stuff. It's often the small things, such as being kind and courteous, that make a difference.
2. Smile. You might be surprised at how contagious a smile can be.
3. Listen. Everyone feels respected when they know you're listening to their point of view.
4. Say hello. You just might make someone's day.
5. Say thank you. Gratitude is a gift that's never too small to give.
6. Reinvent the wheel. Do something that hasn't already been done.
7. Be open. Try to look at new thoughts and ideas as learning opportunities.
8. Be flexible. Things don't always go as planned. Be willing to adapt to changing conditions when necessary.
9. Join the team. Do your part to support teamwork.
10. Be a relationship builder. Seek ways to expand your network.
11. Treat others the way they want to be treated. R-E-S-P-E-C-T... find out what it means to me.
12. Be culturally competent. You might be surprised what you learn from people who are different.
13. Break the ice. Start a conversation with someone new.
14. Demonstrate mutual respect. An inclusive environment requires respect regardless of level, title, or position.
15. Ask. It's okay to inquire about something you don't know. Ask for clarity.
16. Find common ground. It's easy to disagree. Focus on finding something to agree on.
17. Communicate respectfully. Often it's not what you say, but how you say it.
18. Practice patience. Take the time to get the full story.
19. Seek understanding. It's better to not fully understand than to fully misunderstand.
20. Share your point of view. We all have different perspectives. Allow someone to benefit from yours.
21. Get someone else's point of view. After you've shared your thoughts, give other people a chance to share theirs.
22. Lead the way. Let your inclusive behavior create a path for others to follow.
23. Do the right thing. Be fair and objective.
24. Be considerate. Before you speak, consider how your words might affect others.
25. Remember, we all make mistakes. Resist pointing out the mistakes of others.
26. Get involved. Decide to make a difference. Get caught being good.
27. Become a mentor. You - yes, you - can help others realize their potential.
28. Take a healthy step. Do something good for your health and encourage a friend to join you.
29. Lend a hand. A little help can go a long way.
30. Be a champion of dignity and respect. Encourage others to do the same.

Actually, when I think of it, there's nothing here that wasn't taught to most of us under the heading of "common courtesy", is there?

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