How do i love the...

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 candle-light.

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

I love thee with a 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 chooses,

I shall but love thee better after death.

~Elizabeth Barrett Browning