I have never been in love before.

Perhaps I was afraid of what it would mean.
Or maybe I dreaded what it could turn me into.
Maybe I was daunted by the near-misses I've seen.
Or wary that what the others say about love was true.

But I know I am in love with you.

And I know it'll hurt when we can't make it last.
I will surely grieve -- ache and mourn, hate and yearn.
I will curse you, this wretched feeling and our past;
But 'til then, know that for this love, I will gladly burn.

*(c) emeraldine087