I. Physiological
                If you were air, I would gladly take you in,
                fill my lungs with every particle that is you.

                You’ve been a significant part of me
                that taking you away
                would cause so much distress,
                would wreak instability—
                                                    ­       *disequilibrium.

II. Safety
                When you enclose me in your arms,
                    pay attention to the things I say,
                       fill every inch of me with kisses,
                         smile at me reassuringly,
                that’s when I know I’m safe—
                           that I’m secured,
                           that I’m home.

III. Love or Belonging
                I like the idea of us
                having the same wavelength:
                     our interests go in the same direction,
                     and sometimes go their separate ways;
                     but at some point, would intersect beautifully.

IV. Esteem
                I used to think less of myself—
                           always not good enough,
                           almost there but not really.
                I never really thought I mattered
                   until you showed me…

V. Self-Actualization
                It would be pretentious if I told you that
                I am a self-actualized person now;
                but with you, I’ve come to terms with my demons.
                And in you, I found joy and fulfillment.

                                                   ­                                                   *I love you.