This is Love...

This is love…

A picture of two smiling faces,

While downcast hearts are hidden.

As a river…

One with a slow flowing of spiritless water.

The peaceful hum giving comfort but no excitement.

As an actress…

A master of controlled expressions,

who can fabricate a smile, though labored.

As a fire…

Fueled by time spent in sacrificial dedication.

That fails to burn when not shown attention.

Not so…

Love is honest smiles and uncontrollable laughter.

Love is sacrifice, content with not keeping score.

Like a mother…

Bound to her child but joyous for the task.

She gives up her life to make another’s succeed.

Like a swan…

Committing an entire life to one admirer.

Gracefully, gallantly they vivify creation.

Like a puppy…

Trustful, innocent, and blindly following,

Unable to endure any time without their beloved.

Like an orphan…

Awaiting the joyous moment when someone chooses them.

Afraid their faults will leave them lonely, but they are favored.

Strive for this…

A person who sacrificially loves you,

Who considers your desires before their own.

A man…

Who will protect you from the pain of the world,

Yet capable of showing the emotions you cause.

A woman…

Who, though she can herself, gives you the dignity of a man.

And without your knowledge gives you strength daily.

An idolizer…

that treasures the quarks and strange behavior.

One that is infatuated by characteristics no one else welcomes.

A companion…

Who courts you continuously, living to impress you.

Yet, somehow becomes real enough to be your best friend.

True love…

It does not begin and fade as the clock ticks.

As the minutes pass, so the beating of love’s heart quickens.

To you…

Don’t be fooled into thinking love is powerful but fleeting.

It is profound, tenacious, thoughtful, passionate, and worth it!

                                                                   -Abi Bustamante