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In the past few weeks, I have experienced such a lack of disrespect and a lack of common courtesy than I have ever seen before. I have stumbled upon many separate instances here in Dubai, where common courtesy appears to be a practice that is not used here. Here are three examples of how revolting some people’s behaviour can be:
A: The gas stations here in Dubai are usually very crowded, (although the line does move quickly) there is usually a small waiting period and each gas pump has a few cars lined up. As I was patiently waiting in line to pump gas when a black car just decides to very casually come in front of my car and wait for his gas. I honked several times but that didn't seem the faze him. He got his gas before me and the person behind me and then drove off like it was not a big deal.
B: As I came back from work, I wanted to pick up food before I went home. The street where I was picking up the food is usually very crowded, and all the parking spots are usually taken. To my surprise a parking spot to my left was open! I was so excited, I put my right indicator on, waiting for the oncoming traffic to fade away and I would very smoothly park my car in the parallel parking spot. However, a red convertible from the ongoing traffic decided that it was okay for him to take that parking spot regardless f if anyone was waiting for it. After all, the person with their indicators on doesn't matter they can go and find another parking spot.
C: I went to get a bagel from Tim Hortons (yes-there is a Timmies here!), and the lady in front of me was short AED 1. The generous side of me kicked in and I told her, I have AED 1. I took it from my wallet and placed it on the table for the cashier to take. I didn’t get a smile, a thank you or any sort of gratitude from the lady – in fact it was the cashier who thanked me and offered to take AED 1 off of my order.
I have also noticed a rising lack of respect in companies were your employers feel they have the right to be disrespectful and you have to take it face value.
This is where I seem to have a lot of difficulty. I grew up in a family that strives on respect. Respect is something that everyone deserves and you have absolutely no right to be disrespectful to anyone.
Respect is a universal policy – all of us at some point or another were taught certain values, ethics and respect by our parents.
This status quo and hierarchical ideology simply does not work in today’s society. Respect is something that is earned, if you can’t respect me, there is absolutely no way that I can respect you – regardless of your hierarchical status.
This is a rule created in the fantasy world of egoistic people who feel the need to put you down. Have no fear though, these people are likely insecure and intimidated by your success. Ten years from now, you will be huge and they will be a bunch of snobby nobodies!
The bottom line is if you want respect, you've got to earn it. In order to earn it, you must give it, plain and simple. Keep your chin up, shoulders broad and walk like you’re a boss.
