The Lesson of Respect

                

            In a small town, there was a school where children were taught more than just reading and writing—they were taught about kindness, honesty, and respect. One day, their teacher, Miss Jaspreet brought a new lesson to the class.

She held up a student's lunchbox and asked, "If I take this without asking, what is it called?"

"Stealing!" the children answered in unison.

"Exactly! And if someone takes your book or toy without permission, how do you feel?"

"Sad!" one child said.

"Angry!" said another.

Miss Jaspreet nodded. "That’s because it belongs to you. No one has the right to take something that isn’t theirs. Now, what about our bodies?"

The children looked at her curiously.

She continued, "Just like no one can take your things without permission, no one can touch your body without your permission. Your body belongs to you. If someone touches you in a way that makes you uncomfortable or scared, it is wrong. And if someone does this with bad intentions, it is a serious crime."

A boy in the back raised his hand. "Do people really go to jail for this?"

Miss Jaspreet’s expression turned serious. "Yes. Just like a thief who steals goes to jail, a person who touches someone without permission, especially with bad intentions, can be punished for life. That is the law."

The class was silent, absorbing this lesson. Then, a little girl spoke up. "So, just like we ask before borrowing something, people should ask before touching?"

Miss Jaspreet smiled. "That’s right! And if someone ever makes you feel unsafe, you must tell a trusted adult. We must all respect each other’s bodies and boundaries."

From that day on, the children carried this lesson in their hearts. They learned that just as taking someone’s belongings without permission is a crime, so is touching someone without their consent. They promised to respect others and to stand up for what is right.

 

Because respect isn’t just about words—it’s about actions.

By: Jaspreet Kaur