Telling me the truth, 

even when you think it might hurt me, 

tells me that you respect me. 

Your willingness to stand before me and with me, 

as my vulnerability meets yours, 

and the moments are suspended in mid air 

because neither of us knows which way the pieces will fall, 

tells me i can trust you. 

Your courage in the face of fear, 

well aware that uncertainty reigns when hearts are on the line, 

softens me 

and shows me 

that I am worth 

the risk 

of your authenticity.