Love is a lot of things
It's your devotion to someone,
It's putting them before yourself
You couldn't bear
To see them hurt
Witnessing the smile spread
Across their face,
Knowing they're safe
And happy
Is enough.

Love isn't ***
Or physical contact.
You may want that,
But it's not important.

Love isn't just feeling good
Whenever they cross your mind
Or you're in their presence.

Love is taking away all;
The joy,
The intimacy,
The romance,
The kind words
And the light.
That is replaced;
Clutching blankets,
Hidden,
Violent shakes
Tear waterfalls...

Though things might not seem perfect
You still want,
You still care,
You still need.
You want them in your life
Even though it hurts,
Even if your throat is raw,
Your eyes burn.

You don't want to let go,
You can't.
Small voice whispers
"Remember the good,
Forget the bad,
Have hope."
Meanwhile,
Doubt shreds the heart.

You know it's love;
Everything hurts
But,
Thoughts
And memories,
Resurface smiles.

Pain of turning away
Maybe it's a rough patch,
Maybe things will get better,
Maybe...
It might hurt
It might shine
In the end,
Is it worth it?
Of course,
Love's worth the risk.

l.v.s