Respect

Each and every one of us
deserves and craves respect.
It is the cornerstone
of our ego.

I sit here
having difficulty
writing this poem
knowing that respect
is hard for me.

I have lived
in the shadow of others,
secretly yearning
for respect,
yet outwardly
acting differently.

In acting this way,
I have denied myself
an opportunity
to feel good
about myself,
and to receive
the recognition of others.

(continues in the book)

© Gary Dodd 2003

(Please note that the font and format of this poem has been
modified to suit the style and presentation of this website.)