Respect, When It Is Due Poem by ArmourQuill Hunter

To give what you haven’t got is not keen.
Well, who would do such a ridiculous thing…?
So, then, I suppose that respect is thus learned…
Who gave it first, that we appreciate what's earned?

God so loved me first, that’s why “I respect his word.”
Transformed by such Light, some still think me absurd!
If truth acts a barrier of light, driving darkness back,
The envious projects defensive boasts, for what they lack.

Thus I quite agree with Mark Rickerby.
We will always get just what we give…
But what’s the standard for life’s blueprint…
When others don’t conform to right and are bent?

Respect is learned perhaps, but also must be earned.
To show respect for a fool is folly that should be scorned.
I believe in “guilty by association, ” not approving of strife.
Am I disrespectful when I’m so passionate for what’s life?

Biblically, even God shows himself froward with the froward!
I’ll give my foes a hardy ‘thank-you, ’ keeping my pride lowered.
Respecting, in life, there is duality of balances that we learn.
Many use their roles to control; I’ll not give ’em power to burn!