"I Act With Respect"
A spotlight of inviduals from schools, communities, and from around the world who have taken it upon themselves to "pay it forward" as AWRA Ambassadors. They are vital role models in our society, we humbly thank you, and respect you!
Paul Szekely
"I wanted to help Rich Johns with the travel he was constantly facing."“Act With Respect Always was born in 2010 when I introduced it to my sixth grade classes and tennis program. Since that first day I have been simply amazed by the generosity of others who believe in “paying it forward”. What has truly happened since its inception cannot be expressed in words alone. So many people have been touched by AWRA, through large and small presentations and one on one conversations. More importantly, I have been truly moved and humbled by so many.
Paul Szekely is just like the rest of us. He has seen things in his world that have brought attention to and the need to push back the negativity that so many face in life. I first met Paul as he was one of my fifth grade students at Greenfield Elementary School in the mid-1970’s. The circle of life has a way of reconnecting people and I do believe in timing.
Recently, I was presenting at Herkimer High School when I received a note from Paul. In the note Paul said, “I need to do more to help you spread the Act With Respect Always message.” After sitting down with Paul, his wish was a simple one. “I do not want to interfere with you or your message, but I would like to help you with the travel you are constantly facing. I want to “pay it forward.”
In the belief that giving back to one’s community makes it a better place, Mazda nationwide is giving back to communities. Paul’s personal belief in AWRA and New Country Mazda’s “Drive for Good” has donated a Mazda Sport Vehicle for Act With Respect Always. The only thing I can say is THANK YOU.
This edition of the AWRA Spotlight we’d like to recognize Paul for paying it forward…”
– Rich Johns
Introduction
My name is Paul Szekely and I am the General Sales Manager of New Country Ford – Subaru – Mazda
in Saratoga Springs, NY
How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?
Coach Johns was my 5th grade teacher. Coach Johns was also my 7th-8th grade basketball coach.
How did you hear about Act With Respect Always?
I saw the Act With Respect Always banners at various schools I was visiting while I coached 7th and 8th grade basketball for St. Mary’s in Glens Falls. I like the message just from seeing the banners. Curious as to the origin, I searched for the site and was excited to find out Coach Johns was the founder. The idea, his involvement, my experiences with him, it was no surprise to me that this message was founded by him.
How has the Act With Respect Alway mission effected you personally?
I’ve found focusing on “paying it forward”, one day at a time, was a basic fundamental for happiness. How well I “pay it forward” daily is in direct proportion to my peace of mind. I try to instill this thinking and belief with my family, my employees and my players. It’s a way of life for me. Another way to spread good will.
Please share with us how you have, or will in the future “Pay it Forward”
I want to help coach Johns spread this message anyway I can. This community or each community he visits has the power to rally together, spread the word and stop the bullying that occurs. I feel this message is for everyone. I want to lead by example and do whatever I can to share this mission.
How would you describe the Act With Respect Always mission to others?
The Act With Respect Always message is a common sense mission of spreading good will without prejudice. Let’s stand up together against bullying or those who hurt others. Let’s understand our expressions and how they affect others. The Act With Respect Always message is fundamental to feeling good and sharing good positive behavior with others.
Would you recommend Rich to speak about Respect to others?
I highly recommend for schools, businesses, teams or groups please let Rich Johns meet with you and share his message.