The Truth of Love

There are countless poems on love,
All roses, soft wings, and butterflies;
But I must whisper what’s true, my friend 
That isn’t love, but only lies.

People hunger for the safety they lack,
The two build a world apart,
But that kind of love is only a disguise,
A secret shelter, a timid start.

They are like two beggars, hands held out in need,
When empty hearts search for a seed,
If they cannot give what heals within,
Love turns hollow, fed by want and greed.

Love is calm, a steady sea,
Shining light for those who’re free.
No chains, no reins, no puppet strings 
It's love that never clings

Racing hearts and sleepless nights 
These feel loud and teenage.
A glittering mirage is not true love;
Cheap applause belongs on the stage.

Only the one who’s full inside
Knows love is calm, a steady sea;
Only such a heart can mirror light,
A being whole, alive, and free.

Accept my faults, hold me whole;
Let our love fly like a kite with no strings.
No clutching, no ownership, no possession 
Darling, we are humans, not things.

Love is calm, a steady sea,
Shining light for those who’re free.
No chains, no reins, no puppet strings 
It's love that never clings

Niharika Prasad