ivor or ivor.e hogg - Equal rights

Why should I love my enemy?
My enemy does not love me
Why should I turn the other cheek?
and give him cause to think I’m weak.

I show my enemy respect
but let him know that I expect
from him similar courtesy.
He can and will expect from me.

If he is wise he understands
I will not bow to his commands.
I am quite sure I have the right
To fight if I am forced to fight.

I can accept you don’t like me
And I dislike you equally
You have the right to your own view
You must remember I do too.

It’s possible to disagree
And yet not be an enemy.
I think we have the right to choose
If we so wish opposing views.

I do not choose my enemies
I would much rather we were friends
I think my enemies choose me
My rights I will fight to defend.

7-Nov-08

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ivor or ivor.e hogg

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/equal-rights/