I Would Live For You

I would die for you and climb the highest mountain
I would walk ten thousand miles across burning coals
And be tortured night and day for you
I would—“So what?” she interrupts, “Who really cares?”

“You would die for me, but would you live for me?
“You can do the large things, but can you do the small?
“Can you just listen to me when I want to vent?
“Can you leave me a love note every once in a while?

“Could you bring me a rose outside of the holidays?
“Could you shower me with praise and your sincere talk?
“Would you offer to make me breakfast in bed?
“Would you open up your heart and offer me your soul?

“Will you be filled with hope, charity, and love?
“Will you be strong and protective, yet gentle?
“Would you please refrain from using your anger?
“Would you spend the time to cuddle and hold me?

“Could you let go of your fears and your worries?
“Could you be the father my children require?
“Can you understand me and look past my faults?
“Can you lift me up when I want to soar?

“Because, for me, it’s the small things that I think are big
“These are my needs, and I can’t do it without you
“Can I trust you to be the man I deserve?
“Will I be safe if I surrender to you?”

With a look of remorse in my eyes, I apologize
Her wisdom has made me the man I strive to be
Gently, yet firmly, I connect with her eye to eye
I hold her and reassure her, “Yes, I would live for you”

–Jason Westlake
Sat., October 21, 2006