Elegy for Lost Dignity - A Sonnet

There was a time not long ago from now
when self-respecting nature was my pride,
and all who knew me surely could avow -
perspective, peace and poise did I provide.

But once when malted drink had turned me blind,
a lethal slip did throw it all to waste,
determined in my altered state of mind
and made with little thought and callous haste.

So now I stand chagrined where I did start,
for having lost esteem that once was earned
respect back in myself I must impart -
the same which I originally yearned.

      Damn choices rash and impulse insincere,
      you’ve forced me to betray all I hold dear.