Self-Respect

Kudos to Anne Taylor Fleming for “The Importance of Earning Respect” (Commentary, Feb. 19). I was fortunate to grow up in a family that affirmed my sense of positive self-worth (self-esteem) by encouraging the development of my self-respect. Positive self-esteem helps us to be selfish, so that we can help ourselves. Self-respect helps us to be selfless, so that we can help others. For me, having both and balancing them has been the key to personal and professional success. Fleming’s column is a gentle reminder of what’s really important.

LYNN O’MARA

Costa Mesa