IF HURTING ME

If your love is a lie, a mask you wear, To hurt me without a hint of care, Then keep your words of love at bay, For I deserve truth, come what may. Love should be tender, kind, and true, A balm that heals, not one that wounds, If hurting me doesn't hurt you, my dear, Then love's true essence is not near. For love should bring solace, peace, and light, A guiding star in the darkest night, But if your love brings pain and strife, Then it's not love, but a bitter knife. So, if you cannot feel my heart's pain, If my tears don't move you, in vain, Don't ever tell me that you love me, For love should be pure, not just words empty. I deserve a love that's real and deep, A love that makes my wounded heart leap, So, if hurting me doesn't hurt your soul, Please, my dear, let me go. Romique