To be loved, in spite of legendary flaws
To be loved, even though unlovable
To be loved, regardless of moral defect
To be loved, undeterred by physical blemish
All these wishes cannot stand in the face of love’s substance.
They can’t remain in the harshness of daylight or the dim
glow of soft evenings seeking redemption from the day.
Love is earned by conquering the failings that
tear its seeds into shredded strings of loathing.
Love is granted, in defiance of defect and blemish
and flaw, only to the lovable.
