- attentive listening - referring to a person by name - being courteous and polite - learning person’s values and beliefs so as not to offend with inappropriate or offensive remarks - taking person aside when need be to discuss matters that would offend or demean if handled publicly - eliminating offensive language and profanity from your vocabulary

By treating others with respect, you will be amazed by how they will go out of their way to support you. Like-minded individuals will be drawn to you and you will be treated with same respect you show to others.

By showing respect you are silently communicating, “You Matter” and although you may not see an immediate impact, you are making a positive difference and will be rewarded for your kindness through universal reciprocation.

As you start this week, make a conscious effort to show respect to every soul you encounter, even gnarly lady at fruit stand and cranky bus driver. Learn people’s names and show a genuine interest in them. Wish them a good day and thank them for their efforts.

She expressed that life was good and all was well.

I told her I was glad for her and then shared that I had a series of dreams about her that caused concern and I wanted to make sure she was okay.

Immediately after sharing purpose of my call, she paused. Then she told me truth.

She had left her husband after being trapped in a bad marriage for 17 years, and was afraid and unequipped to create a life for herself and her two children.

I offered my help and told her I believed I had dreamed of her for a reason.

I promised her 12 weeks of my undivided support and attention if she agreed to believe in herself and commit to doing what was necessary to create a better life for herself and her children.

The following three months were incredible. She put her heart and soul into making things happen. Although terribly shy all of her life, she worked on increasing her confidence and stepped out of her comfort zone to make contacts, follow leads, and ask for help. She pushed herself beyond her perceived limits.

By time our 12 weeks were over, she had purchased a new home, accepted many gifts offered by good Samaritans, found a vehicle that worked and had a newfound belief in her own power and potential.

She would have experienced a completely different series of events and outcomes if I had never acted on my dream and made contact with her.

I also grew as a person because of our partnership. I reinforced my conviction in power of persistence and belief in human potential.

The next time you have a dream, don’t be so quick to dismiss it. Some dreams lead nowhere, that’s true. We can’t chase every one.

Believe though that dreams can open door to great things and can be gateway to wonderful experiences we may not have otherwise discovered.