In love's embrace, a delicate dance,
Self-respect and ego, a subtle trance.
One uplifts, the other, a heavy chain,
Knowing the difference, a heart must gain.

Self-respect, a gentle, yet firm stand,
Valuing one's worth, in a loving land.
It speaks up, yet listens, too,
Seeking understanding, in all we do.

Ego, a fiery spark, that can ignite,
A burning need, to be right, in every fight.
It fuels pride, and a stubborn might,
Leaving love's tenderness, lost in the night.

In every argument, a choice is made,
To nurture self-respect, or let ego sway.
Solving issues, with a gentle hand,
Or letting pride, a wedge, in love's stand.

If once, you choose, not to give in,
And the other cries, "Ego!" with a frown within,
Take a breath, and let love's light shine bright,
Self-respect, not ego, will guide you through the night.

For self-respect, is not about being right,
But valuing your worth, in love's pure light.
It's not about winning, or losing, either,
But finding common ground, where love can weather.

So, in the heat of the moment, take a pause,
And ask yourself, "Is this ego, or self-respect's cause?"
Choose the gentle path, where love can grow,
And self-respect, will forever glow.