Morning Epiphany: RESPECT precedes love when it comes to intimate relationships. When you respect someone, you hold them in a certain regard. You honor who they are and all they represent. Their words have weight which leads to deeper feelings of trust. It's very difficult to stay "in love" or like someone who has disappointed you repeatedly. This is where respect for that individual begins to break down. Yes, I can be polite to you, but that doesn't mean I respect you.