To All the Girls I've Loved Before

There is a need for me to say "thank you"
For things I've learned when I used to flank you
I'll say them proudly, loudly and curtly
I'm grateful for good times and those times you've hurt me

Ms. Chief, we had some playful days together
You stood by me for a season, in all sorts of weather
The worst in me was game to you; the beast in me unchained
We had to part ways or my life would in rudeness remain

Ms. Take, I am grateful for every bit of correction
Be it in word, in deed, or in secret affection
I used to hate you sharply until you informed me
Errors and failures -- they break me to form me

Ms. Deed, we were thick as thieves when I was clueless
I was naive; your immorality was newness
You never told me my actions would bring aftermaths
But I learned my lessons; had to leave you after that

Ms. Nomer, enticed me to call things as they were not
And urged me to label people without a second thought
My love for words usurped and then corrupted
Until frustration festered, grew and then erupted

Ms. Anthropy, who the hell knew you were so addictive
Implored me to emulate your nature: so vindictive
You lured me and lulled me into sated false bliss
And very nearly chocked me with a saccharine death kiss

And lastly, Ms. Calculation: we've often tallied well
We estimated chances, took risks until we fell
You measured every detail but stifled spontaneity
In the end, we didn't add up; not equals in totality

To all the girls I've loved before
Who travelled in and out my door
I'm glad you came for a time
I dedicate this rhyme
To all the girls I've loved before*




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*Borrowed and retooled from the Julio Iglesias song; written by Albert Hammond and Hal David