Who am I?

I have never commanded respect, only earned it.
When I have tried to command it with fear, rage, or ego, I have lost it.

I can be disappointed when people don't meet my expectations,
but I have no right to blame them for that failing.

I cannot control how the world treats me or reacts to me,
I can only control my expectations and reactions to those things.

I can protect myself from abuse,
with out abusing in retaliation.

The universe tells us we must be petty and cruel to survive.
I will show you all, that the universe is wrong.

I will fail in every one of these creeds because I am human.
I will try again in every one of them because I will be divine.

I am ruthless in my compassion.
I am aggressive in my kindness.
I will make the world a better place by example.

I am Joe Tom Collins.

Who are you?