My parents have always been a major source of inspiration, for as long as I can remember. They always demonstrate great parenting skills. And, most importantly, they own up to their mistakes.

Part of being a successful parent is giving the right advice. My parents always know what to say and when to say it. Even if their words that they offer me are the brutal truth, it still inspires me to be better every day.

The best piece of advice my parents gave to me is that you don’t have to be a fan of everyone in your lifetime. However, everyone deserves respect. In other words, “kill them with kindness.” If I had a dollar for every time I have heard these words, I would be rich.

I feel as if these words have shaped me as a person, and they help me understand what is important in life. You will always have to work with people who you may not favor or they may not favor you, but being respectful gets you far in life. If you show respect, it becomes contagious. Others will respect you more.

Also, when you show that others’ rude acts do not bother you and all you do is kill them with kindness, it is a satisfying feeling to show that you are the bigger person in a situation like this. There are many times in life when people will treat you with disrespect; however, just because someone does not give you respect doesn’t mean you also have to treat them the same way. Being kind, showing respect, and having manners are always qualities that people look for in others.

If there is any advice I would pass down, it is exactly this that my parents always remind me of.