LOVE CONQUERS TIME

Mother was often heard reciting this; especially at this time of the year.

"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 candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a 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.

a note to lovers: As surely as day follows night and winter bursts into spring...if nurtured, love will grow.
Never settle for anything less than this.