i can not tell you that
i want to be your woman
your friend and lover
that you are perfect
in my eyes

i can not tell you that
you are in my heart
and you possess all of
the traits i want
in a man and a mate

that certain air
of confidence or self-assurance
you project
causes you to
stand above the rest
in your own quiet way

maybe one day
i will tell you
but not today
no, i can not tell you that
because i was brought up
believing i must wait
even in this modern age

written 1-21-06

Faith Elizabeth Brigham

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/i-can-not-tell-you-that/