12/10/2025
You wear a suit, and suddenly you're "Sir." Speak English with a foreign accent, and you're "learned." Carry a laptop bag, and you're doing something important. But strip away these external markers, and what's left? We've created a culture where respect is superficial, based on appearance rather than character.
We ask "What do you wear?" instead of "Who are you?" This is how unqualified individuals rise to power, and pretenders gain influence. Integrity doesn't require a uniform. You can be broke and still be respectable. You can wear sandals and walk with dignity.
The issue is that society prioritizes polish over principle. We applaud eloquence, not ethics. We elect charm, not character. We're more impressed than inspired.
Here's the truth: if your respect depends on your clothes, it's fake. A person's worth isn't measured by their public image, but by their behavior when no one's watching. Let's stop confusing presentation for principle.
The most polished exteriors can hide the darkest secrets, while humble attire can conceal the purest hearts. Respect should be earned, not tailored. Before buying another outfit to prove your worth, fix your integrity. When character is dressed right, even in rags, it commands respect.
