Wisdom on Love

Love itself was making its way right into my heart.

Full of promises and dreams and a brand new, lovely start.

I passed the fresh spring flowers with a twinkle in my eye,

In the realization that my heart may actually be alive.

As I found beauty everywhere, something made me catch my breath.

Before me stood an elderly woman, possibly close to death.

She touched my arm with her soft, wrinkled hand and gave me knowing eyes.

"You love her," she stated plainly, "and you fear your love's demise."

"I do," I sighed, "I fear so much, but love should have no fear!"

"It shouldn't be so full of scares and dreadful nightmares!"

"Calm, my dear," she responded with warm, gentle comfort.

"All I can give is my love and support."

Before she departed, she looked me over once more,

as if realizing she did not want to leave just love and support.

With a pause and a light exhale, she took my face in her hands.

"You know, of course, that love is grand.

But also, you must accept that it isn't possible

to be in love without ever finding trouble.

My dear, it's love---it's going to hurt.

Where rejection occurs, others will flirt.

Love brings balance, even when we don't like it.

But that doesn't mean, "Don't fight for it."

As she walked away, I stared at the dirt,

and promised I'd remember, "It's love---it's going to hurt."