When I am singing, I believe that if I respect the public, then

The words of Selena, radiant with sincerity and wisdom, still echo across time: “When I am singing, I believe that if I respect the public, then they will respect me, and I know it. It’s noticeable.” In these few lines lies a teaching as old as the bond between the bard and the crowd, the ruler and the people, the artist and the world. She reminds us that respect is not demanded but exchanged, not forced but given freely in mutual recognition. The singer and the audience are bound by a sacred covenant—each reflects the dignity and devotion of the other.

From the ancients, this truth has been known. In the great amphitheaters of Greece, poets and actors did not perform for themselves alone; they gave themselves wholly to the people. In return, the audience crowned them with admiration that outlasted lifetimes. The bond was forged not in arrogance but in mutual reverence. Selena, standing on her stage, felt this same eternal law: to honor those who gather to listen is to call forth from them a deeper honor in return.

Consider the story of Johann Sebastian Bach, who, though revered as one of the greatest composers in history, wrote much of his music in service of the church and its congregations. He labored not for glory but for devotion, offering his compositions as gifts of respect toward God and community. In turn, his people respected him, and his legacy endures centuries beyond his life. The same spirit shines in Selena’s words: art becomes immortal not when it demands respect, but when it gives it first.

Her insight also speaks to humility. Many artists, when lifted upon the pedestal of fame, forget the source of their strength—the people who listen, who gather, who believe. But Selena knew that without her audience she was not complete. She did not place herself above them; she met them with equal measure. This humility was not weakness but greatness, for only those who lower themselves in reverence can be lifted high by the respect of others.

There is also a deeper rhythm here: Selena shows us that respect is visible, “noticeable,” as she said. It cannot be faked, for the heart knows when it is being honored and when it is being deceived. A performer who scorns the crowd may still entertain, but they will never inspire loyalty. One who honors the people, however, even in the smallest gestures, wins their trust and their undying admiration. Respect, once given truly, becomes a light that shines both ways—upon the artist and upon the audience.

The lesson is this: whatever role you play in life, show respect first. If you are a leader, honor those you guide. If you are a student, honor your teachers. If you are a worker, honor your craft and those you serve. And if you are an artist, honor your audience, whether it be one or a thousand. In this way, you will find that respect returns to you multiplied, and your life will shine with a dignity no power can strip away.

Practical wisdom flows from Selena’s words: be intentional in how you treat others, for they will mirror back what they receive. Approach each encounter, each conversation, each performance of your life with reverence for those who share it with you. In doing so, you will cultivate not only admiration but a legacy of love and trust.

Thus, the words of Selena remain not only the memory of a beloved singer but a torch of wisdom for generations: respect begets respect, and through this exchange, bonds are formed that outlast time. Live this truth, and whether you stand upon a stage or walk in the quiet places of life, you will carry with you a power far greater than fame—the enduring respect of those whose lives you touch.