Before you, life was grey.
Life was grey, but I thought it was a light purple.
Before you, I was content.
I was content with my own company, and a life lived alone.
Before you, I thought I was happy.
I thought I was happy, and I thought I was living life.
Before you, there were others.
There were others who hurt me, who used me, who took but never gave.
Before you, I was exhausted.
I was exhausted from caring, forgiving, trying, hoping, and feeling like I could never find a partner who made me feel safe, special, or loved.
I gave up on the vision of a life lived in partnership, where I could feel safe, loved, and special.
Now I know what it is to live.
Now I picture a tall, gentle giant beside me in old age.
Now I feel special, loved, and safe.