My beloved teaches me
That love is fragile
And fleeting
And requires great tenderness
And constant care
And attention
And affection
Love is so delicate
And precious
It can be so easily
Broken
Or neglected
Or forgotten
Or abused.
It’s strong but fraile
Quite the dichotomy
How love can change the shape
Of the surface of the earth
And yet a single argument can undo it.
Love can endure the torments of time and weather.
But collapses at simple misunderstanding
And hurt feelings.
My beloved teaches me
The value of love
Is in the holding.
In the protecting.
In the defending.
My beloved teaches me
To recognize when
My love is truly held
Safe
Secure
Trusted.
