Self Respect Poem by James McLain

As I return to this earthly realm,
And shed my vibrant, adorned form,
Once adorned with red and white,
A source of pride in days gone by.

If humanity were to pass me by.
With hollow, insincere pity,
My remnants shall speak out why
In a resounding voice, heard triumpfully.

Hush now, for I am satisfied,
Reclaim your meager empathy.
Joy blazed within me,
Too resolute to be undone.

Supple, like a singing swan
Embracing the tempest's blind fury.
In sorrow, I discovered greater bliss,
Than your confined hearts have ever known.