I Love You

I Love You,
but I know not how—
our encounters limited and casual.

I Love You,
with days of countless contemplation
the desire of my heart,
the searching of my soul, and
the essence of my being,
will not allow me to deny that my love is
real and sincere,
profound and unconditional.

I Love You,
for you are beautiful and charming,
graceful and caring,
virtuous and bright,
you possess the sweetest personality
that God has e’er bestowed.

I Love You,
for your talents are such that your
modesty is both beautiful,

and sad;

never perceiving in yourself
what others can recognize
as easily as the midday sun.

I Love You,
but I know, without question,
that you deserve much better.

I Love You,
and I offer this Valentine gift
as a token of my love
(a secret and silent commitment)
and a reminder that no matter
how low,
how dark, or
how lonely
life may sometimes appear
I will care this deeply for you forever.