Respect

My Momma taught me basic respect, then

My Uncle Sam reinforced it.

Everyone wants it,

Most folks expect it and

Society’s quick to endorse it.

 

I found early on that

Fair favor is granted

To he who shows appreciation,

And deference grows

Where esteem juxtaposes with

Abhorrent consideration.

 

In reverence we kneel as we

Worship in silence

And give Him the honor and praise.

Our tribute completes when

The people we meet

Are greeted with kindness and

Not turned away.

 

And then in the end

We get back what we lend,

As dignity stalks

Like an old trusted friend.