She touched my stolid heart in gentle ways

And with a kindness blessed beyond compare;

A winsome smile that shone like heaven’s praise—

At times I would but pause and simply stare.

Her life inspires through steadfast constancy,

A will unshaken, sunshine, storm or rain;

A practiced grace in gentle modesty—

The dearest soul to bear a human name.

Some do believe that angels walk the earth,

In this I bow avowing it is true;

These words may court suspicion, doubt or mirth,

Yet daily I behold this truth anew.

Though men may ask: Forsooth, but what is love?

I smile at her, then raise my eyes above.