Number 43, from "Sonnets from the Portuguese"
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints,—I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life!—and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning
And here's a lovely present that was waiting for me when I awoke - a dozen roses from Larry. He is such a good son, and someday he will make someone a terrific husband.
You are a blessed woman indeed! Receiving roses from your son is wonderfully affirming - I bet you cried!
ReplyDeleteahhhhhhh valentine wishes from our children are all the sweeter
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's, Heather!
ReplyDeleteYour son is really sweet. Love that sonnet too. Enjoy.
...sniff, sniff... smile.... : )
ReplyDeleteFox ; )
I'm terribly sorry to have you mistaken for another person, Sandra. Pls accept my sincere apologies.
ReplyDeleteWow! What a thoughtful son!
ReplyDelete