Dignity is everything,
It holds our being together.
But succumbs to life's sword brandishing,
Which can cut its hair-thin tether.

Vulnerability of any kind,
Can expose us to this fate.
And we're victim, we may sudden find,
Of a callous reprobate.

So be sure to defend this fragile gift,
For yourself and exposed others.
Try remedy the slightest rift,
Be sure the smallest breach recovers.

And guard against those actions,
Where it may be so affected,
Beware all sly infractions,
Until your stance has been perfected.

We are but a skin-bound bubble,
Which floats in a sharp-edged world.
And carelessness spells trouble,
As at each, life's barbs are hurled.

So be as careful as you sanely can,
Treat yourself with due affection.
Make dignity a goal, with plan,
And invest in its protection.