Few years ago, a close well-wisher remarked this about me as I was navigating a toxic relationship.

I have this image of you sitting in a corner. Upset. Waiting for someone to come stand up for her.

It painted a stark vivid picture and drove home a very important truth.

If I don’t stand up for myself, why do I expect anyone else will?

Respect is a fundamental right. But more importantly, it is a responsibility that we owe to our current and future selves.