What I Want, What I Expect

I want to be loved:

I EXPECT that when a man loves me
He will show it,
Whether he says, "I love you",
Buys me flowers (or better yet picks my favorite kind)
Or kisses and hugs me often--
Love is a contact sport, afterall!

I EXPECT that when a man loves me
He will TALK to me about his feelings
About anything that is on his mind.

I EXPECT him to be HONEST with me,
Even when it may hurt my feelings--
Hurt feelings easily heal,
But it takes a LONG time
To build trust up again
After a lie!

I want to be cherished:

I EXPECT that when a man cherishes me
He respects me, respects my thoughts
And my feelings...

I EXPECT that he will remember that I
Am as delicate as a flower,
Yet strong as a fortress.

I EXPECT that when a man cherishes me
That he will control himself,
Whether it be his anger
Or his libido.

I EXPECT that he will NEVER hit me,
Or threaten me.
And never be unfaithful to me.

I EXPECT that when a man cherishes me
That he will treat me like a lady,
Even when I'm a tigeress in bed,
A mule at work,
Or a bitch around my period.

I want to be desired:

I EXPECT when a man desires me
That he wants to be with me,
That he wants to touch me, hold me,
Make love to me--even let me
Make love to him...

I EXPECT that he wants me around,
That HE trusts ME
With his love
With his secrets
With his life.

My wants are few--
My expectations are high,
But the man who will meet them
Will forever hold MY trust,
My respect, my love,
And my heart...

Written: 7-5-97