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.