a respect.

respect is a funny thing.  the tenderness of a heart is easily hardened over time.  words lash out that tear deep gashes right through the center.  it takes time to heal.  nursing it carefully, with a prayer that it returns to as good as new.  it seems that all i ask in life is to be respected.  it seems so simple, yet it also tends to be the tallest order i can ask for.  when i'm wounded i set high expectations.  i feel vulnerable and exposed.  i wish with all my might that someone notice my bleeding heart.  i inspect the damage and a faint scar glistens against the light.  it's a reminder of the pain i once suffered.  i walk the world once again, to be greeted by another disappointment... eventually.  and the cycle goes on, and on, and on, and on.  i find comfort in the routine.  someone who cares enough to point it out, reminds me that it doesn't have to be that way.  respect.  if i expect respect, it appears that i have to always be willing to offer it.  to love and honor any who cross my path.  sometimes i find it the most difficult task i could ever be asked to complete.  yet, the satisfaction of loving someone who needs it more than myself is the highest reward i could ever receive.  i choose love.