I would like to know Tell me what is the bottom line       defining respect I would like to think Respect should be based on the simple fact that I am a human being A member of a diverse human race   I cannot accept the idea of been respected     due to material possessions     superficial boundaries and definitions Should I respect a one because     they fit a mold     have the outer trappings     the things that can disappear     in a heart beat And when you stand naked in the wind    what of your respect then   Should I fail to show respect    due to a ones' lack of possessions    so-called differences Where would my respect lie And then would it be okay For one with the outer trappings To go about disrespecting me Because I might be needy   Should I go around the corner Bounce my elders over the head Take their possessions Shoot down my peers Return with the blood money Acquire the outer trappings Try to fit into your mold So you could respect me   I don't want the justifications offered Providing excuses so I can belittle my integrity The respect that should matter to me      must be my self-respect I cannot afford to see me     as less of a person Because should I look around And the outer trappings are not there Don't you know       I would still want my respect   I willnot give my respect to anyone because of fear for my life Because of their position of power and prestige knowing of the lies perpetrated for said positions Because of their glitter and glamour When they might very well have sold their souls     for those acqusitions Do you think the airs put on     could hide the real you when truths and rights Stand as your judge   I will give you my respect because you are a human being I will continue respecting you because you deserve it As you strive to maintain The moral principles defining life.   [Home] [About] [Contact Us] [Poetry] [My Poetry] [Featured Poem] [User Poems] [Three Poems] [Events] [Guidelines] [Legal]