“Offend, insult, and humiliate” have been under the microscope like English language parsing and analysis, while the possible alternatives “degrade, intimidate and incite hatred” are undergoing the same process.

This is not simply a bat and ball game with the English language, but something that requires a much more solid basis.

The one word that keeps on coming to my mind is ‘respect’.

It certainly could do with some exploration and analysis regarding its place not just in the Anti Discrimination Act, but right across our modern society.

Respect is a multi-faceted virtue that needs to be part of our relationships right across the board.

The dictionary has lots of meanings for the same word, including “avoid interfering with, harming, degrading, insulting or tempting. Treat others with courtesy, politeness and civility.”

Respect needs to be an ingredient in how we deal with all the people in our lives, our church, our society, our country, our businesses, our education system, our health care system, our community services and all the people whose lives touch ours in everyday living.

Can you, just for a moment, imagine a world where respect really governs behaviour?

Where domestic violence is totally eradicated? Where people can discuss their differences without descending to insults and abusive behaviour? Where children actually listen and take notice of parental guidance?

Where bullying simply becomes a thing of the past? Where there is an end to war? And where violence never begets violence?

Nobody should ever have to accept ridicule and mockery because of race, colour, creed, sexual orientation, addiction, homelessness or anything else.

When asked by the media to give his opinion regarding a homosexual relationship, our beloved Pope Francis replied “I am not in a position to judge”.

What a classic example of respect in action.

Respect also extends to the way we use and treat our planet earth and all its components.

How careful are we about disposing of our garbage? Why is there litter in our gutters or large quantities dumped in our forests? Do we follow directions about recycling? Are we careful about water consumption? Do we care about the destruction of the Great Barrier Reef? Are we careful about our use of gas and electricity?

If we want to treat our planet with respect and ensure that unnecessary destruction does not take place, then we don’t have to look further than our own homes and lifestyles.

And the next time we are tempted to look down on someone, to insult them or belittle them in any way and then how about we put ourselves in their shoes, and offer a smile rather than a scowl.

It’s called respect.