Love Poem: With Dignity and Respect
Michael Degenhardt Avatar
Written by: Michael Degenhardt

With Dignity and Respect

Anton walked past the schoolyard
Where basketball, years ago, was the everyday norm.
But, all had changed in this poor boy’s life
To the point that things won’t be the same.
He, now, maintains this school
And accepts the insolence of the 
Students as they sneer at him
Because once, he had a shot. 

He was a good student and athlete,
The road looked like it was paved in gold.
He met this girl that would change his life.
They dated 3 months when she said
That she was pregnant and he,
Yes he, was the only one.
Anton was raised with dignity and respect
And knew no other road to take
Except the road of responsibility.

Now, at 19, this baby in the world
Has a baby to take care of, to raise.
Anton, has proven himself to be a man,
a man willing to accept and endure.
No greater man ever existed.
He’s raising his child with dignity and respect
With his dreams being
That one day his son doesn’t
Make the same mistakes he’s made.