My Heart: A History

He did not understand why I was sad

Only knew his own tears and cries for help

Only knew that I was a selfish, pathetic crybaby

I asked, “Why don’t you comfort me when I am depressed?”

“Because I love you.” '

He never listened to my words

Only knew the movement of my body

Only felt the touch of his skin against mine

I asked, “Why don’t you hear me?”

“Because I love you.”

He did not know what commitment was

Only knew his body craved another woman

Only knew of his desire to hit me

I asked, “Why do you insist on hurting me?”

“Because I love you.”

He did not know how to tell the truth

Only knew that lying was easier than admitting his wrongs

Only knew that I would get upset and did not want to deal with repercussions

I asked, “Why aren’t you honest with me?”

“Because I love you.”

He learns more about my interests.

He buys me roses, “just because.”

He brings me soup when I am sick.

He calls me beautiful as he stares at my scars.

He touches me gently as if I were a porcelain doll.

He knows I am kind, even when my temper takes control.

He carries my burdens when my shoulders begin to bruise.

He tells me the truth, for he knows that is my greatest value.

He gives me the last of the water when both of us are thirsty.

He listens to me yell at him, and then holds me as I sob.

I asked, “Why are you so good to me? Why are you so patient with me? Why are you still

there for me, despite my numerous flaws and shortcomings?”

“Because I love you.”