Your imitation of love fooled me when I was naive.

I have blossomed now and a deserved love I will achieve.

Streams of thoughts flooded through my head,

If only your web of gifts was not woven with anger,

If only your teases had been as hollow as your kisses,

If only your jealousy was for me and not for what was yours.

Those streams are dammed now and will not drown me again.

I am floating now,

inflated with the love of another.

No fiery anger, smoking silence, or devouring demands feed this love

that grows slowly, tendered with care.

Fruits of trust, independence, and equality are reaped

from this new well rooted love.

In this pure love I flower.

No longer under your foot do I cower.