Whether it be as an official of a governing body, a breeder, a
handler, an exhibitor, a judge, a publisher or an administrator...no
one in the dog game has a God-given right to respect.
Over the years this will come. To the breeders who
consistently produce quality animals of correct type; the handlers
who present such dogs with flair, and with consideration; the
officials who do their level best to justify their position, and
work for the good of the sport rather than self-advancement;
the publishers who print without fear of favour; the administrators
who serve those who pay to the best of their ability; and the judges
who go out there armed with knowledge and integrity and need nothing
more to arrive at a sound decision. To those will gradually
come respect of their peers and that of the man on the street.
It should never be forgotten that the
respect of others can never be expected unless there is
self-respect. Without a clear conscience and a positive
self-image, no one in this sport of ours or in any other walk of
life can ever be looked up to by others. This does not involve
material wealth, but rather the inner richness of honest endeavor.
All to frequently we find people demanding respect.
Respect can never be demanded. And those who demand it are the
very people who are least worthy of it.