For my Niece: Why I Love You, Part 2

She said she'd love some more. So here's some more.


I love you because of your goodness. I love you because of your example, the beacon you are for those around you. I love you because of your purity, and your desire to do what's right.

I love you because of your sense of humor. Sometimes it's rather highbrow humor (well, your version of highbrow), and sometimes it's little-kid silly fun, and you're comfortable with both.

I love you because you're no stick-in-the-mud. You like to have fun, and you're tenacious and dedicated in everything you set out to do. You are excited about life, and that excitement shines in your face and through your eyes.

I love you because of your love for (and your loyalty to) your family. I know that sometimes you get on each other's nerves, but I've seen the gentle way you treat your little sisters, and I know it's not just an act.

I love you because of your sincerity and your honesty -- no, wait, I admire you because of your sincerity and your honesty, and over time that admiration grows into love.

I love you because of your grace -- no, not the "grace of God" kind of grace, but that innate feminine quality that you possess. I can't describe it. I'll let Lord Byron take a shot at it:

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes:
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
How pure, how dear their dwelling place.

And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

That comes close to what I was trying to say. Thanks, Lord Byron.

--
Even more love
Uncle Ray