How Do I Love Thee
(A respectful rely to Browning)


There is no need to count the ways
Because the making of a list would
Never include the depth of
Measures I would take to
Show the warmth within your heart
Picture your beauty in caring for others
Or the extent of keen intelligence
Observed by those in your company
Such an accounting would surely
Omit a keen sense of humor
Overlook social skills with kindness and ease
Downplay an ever present gentility
And underrate a genuine appreciation of
My ever deepening devotion
Ensuring above all that such a listing
Of how do I love thee
Is not necessary with you and me


F William Broome 2003-06