How do I love thee ? Let me count the ways .
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach , when feeling out of sight .
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace .
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need , by sun and candlelight .
I love thee freely , as men strive for Right ;
I love thee purely , as they turn from Praise .
I love thee with the passion put to use in my
Old griefs , and with my childhood's faith .
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints , -- I love thee
With the breath , smiles , tears ,
Of all my life ! -- And , if God choose ,
I shall but love thee better after death .

" Sonnets From The Portuguese XLIII "
--- Elizabeth Barrett Browning
( 1806 - 1861 )