Respect - Forgiveness

O' do not show me disrespect
through actions, words, or deeds.
I don't deserve your arrogance —
your cockiness impedes.

It violates the boundaries
that I have set for me.
You've crossed the line and now I wait
for your ap-ol-ogy.

I don't deserve the disrespect
that you are showing me.
We've always been the best of friends —
I know you would agree.

So, if you do apologize,
I promise to forgive.
I do not wish to lose you, pal,
nor be so com-bat-ive.

I've always had your back, my friend
and never turned on you.
I feel that I deserve respect
and that I've earned it too.

Let's put aside our differences
and start anew this day.
I do not want our friendship marred,
nor ever die away.

That's why I asked the good LORD's help,
so He would see us through
the challenges we're facing now,
so nothing's misconstrued.

This poem was a finalist in the August 2025 poetry contest

Books by Kristine Stanton

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