Love Me, Love My Illness

I didn't know how to tell you this...
that I was dealing with a serious thing.
For years, I have battled an illness
that has driven away more than I knew.

As I made my way to your oaken doorway,
I stopped in trepidation of what was coming.
I knocked, and you came and opened the door...
you looke so pretty in your blue silk dress.

You took my hand and led me to the sitting room.
"Are you OK?" you ask, stroking my hand with care.
I begin to talk, then I start to cry in pain.
You hold me close, stroking my hair and face.

When I finish crying, I tell you about the news.
You softly touch me, then kiss my cheek with love.
"My darling," you coo, "I would never leave you.
For I love not only you, but your illness as well."

I was surprised and shocked, but now you giggle.
"You are not your illness--I know the real you.
You are my life and my hope...the man that I love.
And I'll always be there for you, no matter what!"

You kiss me tenderly, and hold me close to you.
We remain like this for a while, oh so quiet.
A nibble on my earlobe tells me you love me...
and as you love me, you love my illness as well.

--RKJ