You had me at hello

You had me at hello

is what I remember best

from Jerry Maguire

I don't know if you

realized it at the time

but trouble started

long before I came here

When did you find out

that my smile truly was

more than just a smile?

When did you learn?

How did you feel then?

How do you feel now?

Because even though

I did not truly know

I felt trouble the instant

I laid eyes on you

A sidelong glance

completely innocent

completely non-committal

and yet, it captured me

Your eyes spoke,

revealing your soul.

They made me want to

just put my arms around you

and shield you from the world.

And even in that instant, I knew

that I never could, never would,

that even if I ever held you,

I would have to release you

again and again,

so that you could grow,

and not be trapped,

smothered,

in my embrace.

I take pleasure in your company,

and I cherish every moment,

every word, every look, every smile.

I take pleasure in seeing you tackle life,

confident or timid,

yet always striding on.

I do not remember the talk that day,

but I do remember when you

looked at me, and I drank in

the sight of your eyes.

As a brother, a shelter from the storm,

a guardian spirit,

or whatever you need,

I will be there for you,

as I have been

ever since.

Without ado,

without a word,

you had me at hello.