"Don't tell your kids you had an easy birth or they won't respect you. For years I used to wake up my daughter and say, 'Melissa you ripped me to shreds. Now go back to sleep.'."

Respect

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Insight & Reflection

This reflection on respect by Joan Rivers resonates across generations. It highlights a fundamental truth about human nature: our continuous search for meaning in respect is what ultimately defines our character and our path forward.

About Joan Rivers

Joan Alexandra Molinsky, known professionally as Joan Rivers, was an American comedian, actress, producer, writer and television host. She was noted for her blunt, often controversial comedic persona that was heavily self-deprecating and acerbic, especially towards celebrities and politicians, delivered in her signature New York accent. She is considered a pioneer of women in comedy. She received an Emmy Award and a Grammy Award, as well as nomination for a Tony Award.

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Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the Quotes Archive Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by Joan Rivers

"Thank God we're living in a country where the sky's the limit, the stores are open late and you can shop in bed thanks to television."

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"Every comedian is furious. Age makes me angry. I'm unhappy at not being able to open packages anymore. I'm angry that libraries have gone. I hate children on planes. I'm very shallow, so they tend to be little things. To be honest, I think I was probably angry the day I was born, you know, about diapers or something."

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More about Respect

"I respect the state workers and I respect their unions, but we simply can't afford to pay benefits and pensions that are out of line with economic reality."

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"Steve Irwin did wonderful conservation work but I was uncomfortable about some of his stunts. Even if animals aren't aware that you are not treating them with respect, the viewers are."

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