it took me years to learn

that sometimes when

he says ‘nah, that’s ok’

what he really means is

‘yes—but only if you

care enough.’

 

and it took me time

to be intuitive enough

to know that it wasn’t

about the things, simple

things, like another

coffee or a treat,

 

he was fine without

them either way.

it was about whether

i cared enough to

plan and execute

the extra mile

—for him

 

and see needs and wants,

and act—just because.

to develop aptitude

and know him well

took time, with further

learning still ahead, but

is immeasurably worth it.  

 

—when your love is an ‘acts of service’ person and you are not.

 

Heather Pound 2023

Photo by tabitha turner on Unsplash