I grew up
Same as most kids
Not a lot of thought
In anything I did
But as the years passed
I began to see
The ways of the world
Revealed to me
Learning the meaning
Of earned respect
That it’s a two way street
An honest manner to reflect
If I’ve learned anything
In living sixty-one years
It’s to hold myself accountable
To let it be my driving gears
Everyone wants respect but
Respect is a double-edged sword
It can solidify your honor
Or prove deceit in your word
To deserve respect you need to
Understand responsibility
To own your actions, good or bad
Hold yourself to accountability
Copyright © Accidental Poet 2018