As I have gotten older and understand politics more, one thing has stood out to me the most. Our country has lost the most trivial aspect of a society: respect.

Now, I'm not saying we should go back to monarchies, gender and financial statuses, but we have forgotten a very basic skill.

It is shown day after day, but is blinding during presidential elections and times of civil unrest.

I understand that not everyone will have the same viewpoints, opinions, and backgrounds. However, a difference in stance should not warrant anyone to demean one another.

I am always lost during times such as these, watching others comment the most heinous slurs and phrases over a difference in political opinions. What happened to having a civil conversation with one another?

Also, your friends don't have to believe in the exact same values as you. That's part of maturing: understanding and acknowledging the opposition, and being able to have a conversation.

One of my friends is the perfect example of respect and maturity. I was in high school with her, served in many clubs together, and played on the same teams.

I began to notice how mature she was when we participated in Model United Nations conferences together.

She was so, so passionate about every issue and policy we discussed. She spent countless hours compiling research, practicing policy statements, and preparing arguments. I could always tell that she was the most prepared, and could back up every word she said or quite frankly, thought.

But one thing stood out to me the most: her ability to respect others. No matter if she disagreed with every single word coming out of your mouth, she always took the time to listen, BEFORE responding. And when she did answer, it was cohesive and calm, but most importantly, never undermined the other party.

The most important lesson I have learned from her and one that I hope others take away is the ability to listen. Just take 5 minutes to hear out the other party. Listen to their passions and research before berating them and their ideas. They probably spent time looking through articles and news outlets, just as you did.

Even if you don't agree with a word they are saying, do them a courtesy. Treat others as you would want to be treated. You would want your argument listened to with full attention, so do the same for them.

If we are to learn anything from these crazy times, let it be to value respect. A lot of problems would be solved if we would simply listen to each other's thoughts fully before responding and making judgements.

Thank you, Anna, for instilling a lifelong lesson in me and teaching me how to be passionate about a cause.