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 every day’s
Most quiet need , by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely , as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely , as they turn from praise.
I love with a passion put to use
In my old griefs , and with my childhood’s faith.
I love thee with a love I seemedto lose
With my lost saints , I love thee with the breath, Smiles , tears , of all my life!and , if God choose, I shall but love thee better after death