Essence of Love

I spent a great deal of time trying to make this most intangible of emotions fit my usual style of prose, but after about eight hours worth of work, I decided that the best direction to choose is one of poetry.

From the beginning, men were made to be partnered
Yet such things have come forth, that they might stand in the way
Regardless of effort, no care for time, they will alter
Those things we love best, and leave us out in the rain

As people, we try to stand up and take what is given
But those who might give are often hurried away
And if you offer all, your life, love, and oaths of commitment
You will quickly find, just one will accept and stay

Approach with caution, now, and in your heart:  forgiveness
Take control of your life, and save those gifts for your truth

Life is harsh, yes child, it can be so
But don't allow those clouds of resentment to bar your way
Come in with a fresh heart, door wide open to all
Remember that the pain slips in, but it's oh so worth the cost

When you find that place, as many a man has before you
Hold on with your life, and bear no quarrel between
The sacrifice of the self for the love of your other is sacred
And if they respond in kind, light will shine through

I've had my trials, yes, I've certainly been there
Had my face in the coals, my feet hung over the flames

You must go forth now, and take with you this wisdom
That within your self, peace must prosper and grow
Only then can you share joy with others
When your sanctum of soul is free from all of the dust

Fear no man, take your life in your hands, and walk swiftly
But not so quick that you miss the journey along the way
You follow the paths of many that walked here before you
Lose no hope, for they will show you the way

Claim your love, it's yours, and divinely presented
And pray that your partner will not long be astray

Tempests of passion, storms of indignation
Fits of rage, none can stand to compare
This feeling within, the state of mind of contentment
Though when it's lost, often one falls to despair

If your love seems lost, and no hope is found, join with me, here
And hand in hand, you and I will find our way
Do you dare to dream, your fantasies and desires
Will they guide your path, or somehow lead you away

If you choose your life to be lived here, right in this moment
Take the love that you have, and savor it for today