LostOne, I think it shows that you're very sensible. The fact that you show respect for the 'rank', but don't throw yourself at the persons feet means that you're courteous, and you are respectful, but you reserve respect for the person until you know them better.
Lostone, you bring up a good point. Is there a difference between being respectful towards a person and respect for a person? There very well might be. You spoke of the military. I don't like that example (and I will tell you why, in a moment). But, let's take, for instance, when you are entering someone's home that you don't know. You are courteous and yes I do suppose you ARE respectful (or should be). However, does this mean you respect them? I am not so sure, as I believe respect is something earned and if you don't know the person how could you respect them? And, in fact, even entering a person's home that you don't neccessarily even like (say, you go over to their house because a friend took you) you would STILL probably be courteous and respectful (at least, I would hope). But, it would be outrageous to say that you respect this person that you don't even like. So, I think, you have a VERY good point, there.

The reason I don't like the military example is that it is not neccessarily "respect" or even being "respectful" when you address a higher ranking officer in a respectful way but simply following protocal. It's like the chat room thing. It's sort of like Jakbird was speaking of, there is a difference between being forced to do something (out of pressure... usually over the threat of losing something ... like a job... or someone... like a buddy) and doing something willingly (from the heart because you truly believe the person deserves your honor and respect). That is why I don't like the military example. But, it did help me to see what you were saying.