For your birthday,
I want you to know one thing.
It's not that you're incredible
or that I find you (so) attractive.
It's not that I am lucky
to be with my best friend.
Or that your eyes
your nose
your smile
are perfect
It's not that you treat me so well
and hug me like you mean it.
Or that I am proud
to call your mine and
want everyone to know it.
It's not that your kisses
your embraces
your words
take me to another world
and cause me to melt.

No,
what I want you to know
on your birthday is not these.
But,
all of these
plus
one loaded phrase.
I love you.

My love for you is abounding,
without barriers,
flawed,
and encompassing.

My love, itself, aches and
is joyful,
is loving,
and satisfied.

This love is goosebumps,
and fingers touching,
and intimate
and best friends.

We love as the waves break,
the fire consumes,
and the sheets ruffle.
We love as one.