you need to know he is smart
probably one of the smartest people
you will ever have the privilege to meet
and he knows it

so it never hurts to let him know that
his are not the only words to have ever
blessed the Earth with their presence

appreciate his smiles because I doubt 
you will ever see any as soft and brilliant
that seem to banish clouds
and his laugh is a gulping, choking chuckle
and it burbles out rarely

understand he starts conflicts merely to be
contrarian, he cares deeply
about not caring, and beneath the
quiet angst he possesses a fiery temperament

to hear his thoughts and understand them
is like seeing the stars for the first time

know his flaws but don't exploit them
for though he hides it well, under that
flannel outer shell is softness and vulnerability

he enjoys rigorous debate and boat rides
and good kush and his lips move constantly
with the words of whatever song plays in his head

you need to treasure his attention and
love every piece of his poetic soul

and understand how lucky you are
to know how his words taste on your tongue
when I can only wonder