It seems that, indeed, we all have our own interpretation of this word that seems to mean so much to us. Some people feel that respect respect needs to be earned, some say respect needs to be given. Some say respect is the result, some say respect is the beginning.
Whatever it is, I admit that it matters a lot to me. Those that show respect to others, through their actions and statements, are the ones I find most easy to respect myself.
However, you asked for a definition, so I give you my personal view:
Respect is the extent to which one attaches value to the interests, contributions and expressions of others. Or in the case of self-respect, to one’s own interests, contributions and expressions.
We show respect by making sure that our actions are a reflection of that value.
I hope that down the line we, as a species, will be evolved enough to realize we need to respect all and every living thing around us. More than that… that we need to respect all that is around us,as it is now and as our actions will make it be in the future.
Not merely because we are undeniably intertwined with the world we live in, but because we realize that through the respect we have for our world, we truly deserve to be respected ourselves.