You rescued me from shadows deep,
Pulled me from the mire of doubt,
From years entangled in self-destruction,
You lifted me, brought me back to life,
Taught me to see my own reflection
Through the lens of love and kindness,
Not only for myself, but for you, for others

Settling into the rhythm of married life,
I find that I don’t say it nearly enough—
Though I should whisper it with every breath:
Thank you for your tenacious love,
For the warmth of your laughter,
The glow of your smile,
And the energy that fills our home

You bring color to my once-faded eyes,
You fill my heart with infinite love
In every moment, you are my joy,
My anchor, my reason to rise

Note: This poem is dedicated to my wife, Rachel.