Respect - it's a basic thing

You are born to have the gift of respect and you are free to give respect as it is yours to give. Give respect to everyone, it's a priceless gift. Funny how it is said, respect is earned. Then, we say, respect your elders. Hmmm, so, only the elders have earned the right for our respect? Or, when we are taught, respect everyone, no matter what color they may be. That can only mean, all people, no matter what color, race, age, belief, creed, etc have already earned the right to be respected. Hmmm, maybe, we mean, admiration is earned, rather than respect? Food for thought. But nonetheless, I think so many wars, conflicts, fights and misunderstanding can be avoided if there was respect. It's a basic thing.