I would like to propose that we declare the day on which Aretha Franklin passed, International Respect For Woman Day.  Anyone else agree?

Queen of Soul
by Michael Romani

The time has come to be called home
The lady has left us singing alone
And now I pay her, her propers best
In a salute to how she passed the test

Socking it to us as the queen of soul
Aretha became the embodiment of her roll
Righteously demanding without neglect
Every woman's empowerment and respect

Taking care of business went a bit deeper
Than paying the bills to avoid the reaper
She turned Redding's song on its head
As a woman recognized for the things she said

R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Is a simple sort of recipe
To nourish the soul of man and woman
Respect - no less and no more than

It is how we make this world a better place
The rapid fire refrain stuck in our face
Socking it to me became more than a phrase
As it took on proportions going beyond phase

At the end of everyone's busy day
They want propers shown in the right way
There is magic in shown mutual respect
It is something we should never neglect

It isn't so much about authority
As it is about worth and dignity
The most priceless gift to give to thee
Is priceless in both meanings to you and me

(c) September 1, 2018  Michael Romani
All Rights Reserved