Because our first dance, in the spring of 16,

I looked up and met your gaze, a gaze composed of a

Love I never knew existed.

You made love seem so sincere and true.

 

Because I knew it was best for you,

I said goodbye as you left for college that fall.  

Love, against all odd you pursued me;

You, gave me hope, despite 368 miles between us.

 

Because I didn’t want to hinder your growth,

I questioned, “Why choose me when separation could be so much easier?”

Love, you stated without hesitation, “Because I love you”.

You and I rooted deeper in our faiths - encouragement toward one another.

 

Because I missed your sweet smile,

I jumped in the car before you knew I was serious.

Love brought me along the seven-hour car ride,

You were astonished to see me there.

 

Because we worked at a summer camp together,

I could talk to you while standing in the flower bed outside your work.

Love persisted throughout that summer and only seemed to increase.

You never ceased to bring a smile to my face.

 

Because the summer ended,

I couldn’t stand the thought of being the one to leave this time.

Love, you lifted my face to meet your gaze.

You offered your trust: “Because I love you, I will wait.”

 

Because I moved 810 miles away,

I was upset that I didn’t get to be with you.

Love, however, still prevailed.

You pursued me even more and reminded me every day-

 

“Because I love you,

I will wait - however long it takes.

Love, let that ring on your finger be a promise,

You can rely on me.”

 

“Because of what we have endured, my love, there is no doubt:

I have loved you since the beginning,

This love we share endures through time and distance,

You taught me what it means to love. You grew my faith.”

 

Because there is nothing that can ever make me stop loving you.