A Position of Honour

The sole secret to gaining honour among others is to fulfil their needs. If you convince others that you can do so it will become impossible for them to ignore you.

An educated young man got married to a young lady whose appearance was not up to the expectations of the family. On this count, his sister-in-law openly showed her disapproval of the bride. Each member of the family treated her as if she was a person of no account. They looked askance at her, for she appeared to be an undesirable object in their midst. She had evidently entered their home to no purpose.

Although the girl was not outwardly very beautiful, she appeared intelligent, and did not display any resentment at the family’s behaviour. She knew that beauty is temporary, while one’s deeds are of lasting value. She decided that although she could not earn their praises on account of her appearance, she could try to earn their goodwill through her deeds.

She silently took on all the responsibilities of the household. She maintained and managed the house, entertained guests, ran the kitchen, took care of everyone’s needs, and so on. This was her daily routine. She thought all this was her duty, whether anyone asked her to do these things or not.

The woman neither uttered a negative word nor did she retort to any family member. She only concentrated on her work. And the result was that very soon the behaviour of the family members towards her changed.

This is the wisest course of action whether it be the matter of a house, village or country. The only secret to gaining respect is to prove oneself by fulfilling the needs of others. Then people will not only give you respect but they will become totally dependent on you.