Sarah Kay & Phil Kaye - When Love Arrives

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Sarah Kay & Phil Kaye, performing at Inner City Arts in Los Angeles, CA.
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About Button:
Button Poetry is committed to developing a coherent and effective system of production, distribution, promotion and fundraising for spoken word and performance poetry.
We seek to showcase the power and diversity of voices in our community. By encouraging and broadcasting the best and brightest performance poets of today, we hope to broaden poetry's audience, to expand its reach and develop a greater level of cultural appreciation for the art form.

[@dominikagero6136]

"Maybe love stays. Maybe love can't. Maybe love shouldn't." Fuck this made me cry.

[@aydunmola]

Me too, me too

[@thabisomathe2365]

It is so heartbreaking

[@justzira9588]

I know didn't expect to cry 😭

[@NgocAnh-wh8oq]

same here....

[@angelesbonillaperez8039]

I'll never be ready to be alone ...

[@maristellas9669]

"Love disappeared, slowly, like baby teeth losing parts of me i thought i needed." Ugh, I love that line so much.

[@she_is_zoe]

It's like forgetting the words to your favorite song You can't believe it, you were always singing along - Eet, Regina Spektor

[@oliviaparadice3471]

same sis

[@nandhu1802]

Beautiful ❤️

[@kitashinsukesricebag]

confession, I’ve watched this video everytime i have gone through a breakup. watched this for the first time when i was 17, and now I’m 21 and just thinking about how beautiful this video is **now 23 and STILL occasionally come back to this so i can share with friends who are going thru a tough time too :”) hope u guys r doing well!!

[@tinovimbatimba6997]

Literally exactly the same.

[@5musictomyears5]

Same it helps so much

[@melinasolis9483]

This is the first time I've watched this after a breakup and it made it even more beautiful. I'm sobbing rn

[@kaellemoraes1943]

SAME

[@farwahehee8087]

I just uploaded my poem as well Can you guys please check it out💕

[@NatalieWisler]

I wish I had the words to describe how perfect this poem is. But I don’t. It is just everything.

[@Mubblz]

This comment should be highlighted! ❤ This poem feels. 👊🍃

[@jeelpanchal6486]

Trruueee

[@kendjana]

I listen to it over and over again. I’m never tired of it

[@alisa_and_pup]

I loved this poem YEARS ago, and now is the first time I've heard it after "love" has just left me. And... Damn. It sounds different now. And I think I like it even more

[@egheemovon2385]

It Beautiful

[@rennydanston6507]

“If love leaves, ask her to leave the door open behind her.”

[@micaelarochele5700]

Beautiful, Keep loving 🥰

[@princessettedona264]

Love that line ❤️❤️❤️

[@concanjaninemikaelao.244]

"Thank you, for stopping by." What a great line

[@alfiyatabassum6276]

@@concanjaninemikaelao.244 hindisong

[@greatvalue_ethelcain]

That reminded me of Bly Manor so ow

[@consuelabhammock]

The way phil says "You are beautiful" makes me want to believe that i am beautiful.

[@srishtidatta5639]

You are beautiful :)

[@jbukenya80]

Regina Phalange but my darling, you r beautiful.

[@samiraisimbi9675]

Regina Phalange you're so beautiful

[@arrowhead697]

Anyone whose username is inspired by Phoebe has to be amazing, beautiful and talented!

[@spacedustandplanets7901]

Regina Phalange you are beautiful and i appreciate your username and profile pic thingy

[@Channel16070]

After all these years, so many of us keep coming back to this piece of art.

[@ButtonPoetry]

Just does something many of us need to see and hear I think.

[@Hrodolfrr]

I will always think that this is the magic of art, the magic of poetry… doesn’t matter the moment, it’s always there to remind us things past and things to come

[@alexlindbjerg8283]

again and again 💞

[@nthankachan5855]

I had heard Sarah almost 4 years back i think and i fell in love then with her ,her art and all that she says almost instantly ,somehow i heard her again today and i think i am still in love.❤

[@rincybaptish891]

Ikrrrrrr

[@cintiqlover]

Me: *coming back to this everytime I get my heart broken*

[@christinepeace1738]

Listen to it while your heart is full and maybe the heart break won’t be so hard

[@wynter_aneiya969]

So is live going good🙂

[@cintiqlover]

@@wynter_aneiya969 nope LOOOL

[@beIIew]

When Phil was saying "you are beautiful" it's one side that always gives. And I love it was he paused and Sarah looked over and says it in return - because love shouldn't be a one-sided sacrifice and both sides deserve to hear the phrase "you are beautiful".

[@BrainFoodCafe]

well percieved

[@nano_chesus8933]

belle wong I interpreted it as when love can not or forgets to tell you your beautiful your should tell yourself

[@Khanh-zn3ki]

I like how everyone have different ways to interpret it. I see it as self love when no ones believe in you, you should be the one that know your worth

[@monalishakumari2113]

Apt

[@lisaschmidt3315]

@@nano_chesus8933 same

[@ana51315]

This poem has a new meaning to me every time i listen to it. It is eternal.

[@chebruu7015]

Trueee

[@resegoselefo9441]

Same 🌷

[@TheMatriculous]

Totally agreed. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched this.

[@onyinyejm]

2020 here, who is watching this at home during the corona outbreak?

[@betterxogi]

Im watching this for my e-learning class lol

[@travelogs99]

Me💯

[@emanmohammed1280]

me

[@alejandrasaez]

Watching again. I love them

[@izzybluebell8399]

I watched this way before corona cause i love PoEmS

[@niayahmufidah]

I revisited this poem everytime love arrives and everytime love leaves

[@aranzazuperete3559]

I’m glad I’m not the only one :)

[@oilb0i811]

nobody: me: *in my bedroom crying watching slam poetry*

[@braxtonarmstrong6105]

Same here, I won't lie 😅

[@jiniccamesquita5454]

... same, ngl

[@mexicanlight7780]

me rn

[@leslyeaviles2902]

Same :(

[@vickybeckett3733]

And me

[@Do-hz6gt]

Maybe love stays Maybe love can't Maybe love shouldn't Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to And love leaves exactly when love must

[@koalasendslove]

😭

[@dah_ah_17]

Omg I scrolled down to this comment 'the' exact moment when they were saying this part...!!!

[@jasminmitchell6960]

Love this as the love of my life and I just broke up

[@elzaborondy5618]

@@jasminmitchell6960

[@olamideadio]

@@jasminmitchell6960 Be strong.

[@naledijonas9245]

FUCK when he says “love arrives when love is supposed to, and love leaves exactly when love must.” break my heart, i’m a good way

[@phyrr2]

This poem is meant to be read repeatedly over the years, because you will understand more and more of it every time. It's like re-reading a good book where you always find more gems or truly understand points that were made. And even later, what you thought you truly understood, you understand even more :) Just like you hopefully will of love over time. I only came across this poem now but I can see exactly how it works - and boy is it so very on point. As someone in their 40's with a fair share of loves through life, each time striving to learn from it and become more whole, I am glad to see such a message being shared. I am also at a point in my life where I have left behind the jealousy, the expectations and the possessiveness - all things which come naturally when we are young with love. But as time goes on, they become replaced by unconditional love, understanding, hoping for the very best for them (even if it means they found someone else in your stead), making sure to keep that door open and to not ever burn that bridge simply to lash out. We cause love to fail, or as some might see it, we set up the other person to "fail us" when truly we are the cause of that failure. Cliche yes, but absolutely required, is you must love yourself. Because when you do, you do not hold expectations or make demands of love. You simply are love and are with love and allow love to walk beside you as long as you both are able. When you force love to come along with you, it becomes twisted, and eventually animosity which is not love at all. Controlling a thing to be what you want it to be, or taking a series of actions in order to get a desired result with love means you no longer have love - it has already gone. And likely, it has been shoved away by your very actions to keep it with you at all times. When we have these low level emotions of jealousy and such, crying to ourselves imaging them being with another person after ourselves, we are in a state of desperation. We believe it was the only true one. And yet over time, we are disproven every time we meet love again. If you learn the lessons, you will be able to truly understand and enjoy more of what love has to offer. Do not equate time as a multiplier of love. There is quantity yes, but demanding it multiply the quality is like multiplying by zero - you will end up with absolutely nothing if you force its hand. If you truly love, you will want the best for them, no matter what. When you next lose a person and are focusing on what you have lost, think of them and what they have experienced. Think of why they left you, and of the pain they suffered while trying to keep love around with all the best measures and intentions, giving you space, patience and understanding and yet still you forced it and it flew away. To truly love means you will look back and remember this person - this equal - as someone to be grateful for having experienced at whatever the level was. And if you truly love them, you will hope that they are well in life and will find love again, no matter where it is. If you are only hoping they will love you again, it is a self-fulfilling prophecy that they never will. Even if you reconnect, that desperate desire will ensure that the love never truly returns and while you may arrange another dance, it will never be at your side again. You have to let it go. And in letting go, you are at peace and wishing for them at peace. And lastly, while letting them go and not wishing them to come back, you are leaving that door open so that they may return. But of their own desire and free will. Because true love is free to come as it wills. You do not lock it into a box for you to admire or to experience (or take) what it should want to offer willingly. To take from love, is to betray and destroy it. We are all human and we all make mistakes and are all stubborn and can be unreasonable. Remember this when you are hurt and focusing on the "why" they did something. Ponder into what may have driven them to such a heinous action and what actions you may have done to contribute to it. After many years of keeping the doors open, I have reconnected with past loves and kept them as good friends. In which case, I made a point to ask what went wrong (and without any voice of judgement). Asking without judgment leaves them free to communicate with you as they will. And that is the only time you will ever get true answers. True answers that will give mountains of information about you so that you may learn and grow to become a better person for the next time love arrives. Never tell love that you will be perfect, but that you will do better and that you would like to co-exist and walk as willing partners with no chains between you. Humility, self-reflection, seeking to understand all sides and ultimately self-growth, are the tools of which to prevent you from being blind to greater love the next time it passes you by. Expectations will give you tunnel vision, ensuring you miss such opportunities. Widen your vision and understanding and you will see it's like casting a wider net, allowing you to have opportunities of all kinds of love. When you remain hyper-focused, you only allow certain types of love, and will repeat the same relationships and begin to wonder "why do I always end up here? Why do I always attract the same bad people?", etc. When the truth is, you've only allowed yourself a narrow focus of opportunities out there. In our search to see all of what love truly can be and what it has to offer, we must tear off the blinders we place upon ourselves, built from the lesser emotions of jealousy, anger and resentment. If you do not move past these feelings and limited understanding, you become your own jailer.

[@shallydoul]

This comment is absolute beauty 💜

[@noor23750]

Absolutely beautiful 🌹💌

[@natashas.1566]

100% true. Very well written. Not many people manage to pass beyond their ego and experience true unconditional love, without expectations, hence becoming aware (and truly feel that) forcing love to stay (due to fear of becoming alone) is solely love towards ourselves and our ego, but not love towards the other. But, you have done the tough work and understood true love. Good for you! It is rough, but it is probably the most wonderful thing someone can ever experience. Thank you for sharing your understanding with us. Be well. 💝

[@phyrr2]

@_ KJ It's hearwarming to see your reply and I hope you persevere as the person you wish to be. Stay true to yourself and things will work out for the better in the long term. I wish you well :)

[@lisaomondi6444]

beautiful 🥺🥺🥺

[@CaityCat6]

I could listen to them read their grocery lists oh my GOD

[@kaylaramer2900]

ikr

[@janatomlin1296]

I feel the same way omg there voices are just so peaceful to me X3

[@cairo389]

Caity R K hahahq

[@pendant28]

SO SOFT I LOVE IT

[@sims98439]

them and morgan freeman

[@vernann99]

I first saw this poem 2 or three years ago, and only in this preformance did I realize that they are speaking of Love as a personified entity, who will visit you through different people. As if Love has never left you in one person, but continues the same love through different incarnations. This concept just now struck me, and I think it lifted a confused and angry weight off my shoulders. Just thought I'd share.

[@jamieann4570]

me as well

[@lynmagarao1005]

+Auditorial-Lacerations Some thoughts and ideas about love only make sense after we've gone through them... I like the thoughts you've shared. :)

[@ainw8156]

Very well

[@jbukenya80]

Auditorial-Lacerations this comment has just lifted a lot of frustration and angst. Thank you.

[@hc7335]

omg this comment changed my life

[@johannaneunzig9695]

7 years later and this is still my favorite spoken poetry/poem ever, it's just perfect

[@kasisghale4795]

I will NEVER get over this poetry. i will keep coming back here until the day I can't.

[@awesomecrazystalker]

"When love leaves, tell it to leave the door open behind it."

[@apachecheyenne904]

Underrated line. Because it means so much more than what most initially think

[@thearnotts121]

The original thank you, next.

[@its_abbyytr8596]

So that it wouldnt be that hard for you to open up for the next opportunity when love arrives..

[@kyrabrooks1142]

I felt that part

[@pantreshaloon]

“Thank you for stopping by.” I don’t know why this line gets to me every goddamn time.

[@yoleelouis9575]

I wish love could stay

[@riti7074]

Right

[@familyfunadventureswithkar954]

It hits hard because it's true. Nothing is ever permanent it hurts even after a failed marriage but thanks for stopping by.

[@lilythebookworm5824]

"Love had terrible rhythm on the dance floor but made sure we never missed a slow song" this is my favorite line from any poem.

[@dinarmareta6470]

"Thank you for stopping by" Whenever I feel like I can't forgive myself and my past love, I remember this line. Why? Because I keep on blaming myself for staying beside the Love who never treats me as I deserved. But however, Love was there. Love wasn't perfect, and so was I. That's why I also have to thank the Love for stopping by. Thank you Sarah and Phil for the really beautiful and eternal poem.

[@saras.7055]

"Maybe love stays..." "Maybe love can't..." That really got me.

[@melissabailey789]

Sara S. Maybe love shouldn't 😭

[@wuijck]

Melissa Bailey BEST PART!!!!!

[@baileyskye934]

You and me both.

[@AlexisRosa]

just crying by myself in my room at 4 in the morning

[@JuleSophia]

+Alexis Rosa lol that is so me right now i feel you

[@starkid77]

That's my favorite place and time:)

[@moggycat99]

Alexis Rosa Half eleven at night. Tears have arrived

[@yuki.arashi]

2 am crying wrapped in my bed sheets. Stay strong

[@sagecrops7368]

Alexis Rosa 4:15

[@kimpica8672]

The whole lyric of this poem is like watching a 3 hour long romantic movie. It makes you feel all sort of feelings- a rollercoaster ride!

[@arst30]

2024 & I came back here again. It hits differently every time.

[@ilovepiedoyou2]

i like how after sarah said "when you don't believe it" and after "when nobody else will tell you", the way phil says "you are beautiful" is almost in disbelief that anyone would think otherwise.

[@AnEveningWithE]

"Maybe Love is in New York City, already asleep, maybe you are in California... wide awake--maybe Love is always in the wrong time zone." This got me. This is my present relationship with Love, exactly. Love is asleep while I seek comfort in poetry. Thank you.

[@yolandajerome9561]

aww

[@chrism9309]

+AnEveningWithE I don't know about you, but I've been dealing with almost three years of this...

[@HaileyAdelle]

+AnEveningWithE I think this too at times.

[@zeppyjenjen]

Hope you found love now

[@christylighthouse1702]

AnEveningWithE This line resonated more than anyone else could possibly even know..💗😢

[@g._.speaks7059]

I’m crying, it’s just I don’t know what type of tears they are

[@ratz220]

😭 true. Do checkout my videos on spoken poetry and also let me know if you like them

[@SaimaTheGreat]

Samee

[@ssshiiine]

"Love stayed away for years... and when love finally reappeared, i barely recognized him. "

[@ratz220]

True. Do checkout my videos on my channel on spokenpoetry. And also don't forget to leave a feedback

[@heyitsmariabanana]

I have listened to this when I was in college and I had never have been in a relationship. It hit different before. Now, I am working already, had my first relationship and break up, it hits like a truck this time. This poem is eternal

[@Neha-pr4hg]

Same.

[@farwahehee8087]

I just uploaded my poem as well Can you guys please check it out💕

[@wynter_aneiya969]

You have 600 likes can I like?

[@anannyanath9143]

Same

[@youtubecompany8625]

When Love Arrives (Transcript of Sarah Kay & Phil Kaye's spoken word poetry) BOTH: I knew exactly what love looked like- in seventh grade. SARAH: Even though I hadn’t met love yet, if love had wandered into my homeroom I would’ve recognized him at first glance. Love wore a hemp necklace. PHILIP: I would’ve recognized her at first glance, love wore a tight french braid. S: Love played acoustic guitar and knew all my favorite Beatles songs. P: Love wasn’t afraid to ride the bus with me. B: And I knew, S: I just must be searching the wrong classrooms, P: just must be checking the wrong hallways, she was there, I was sure of it. S: If only I could find him. B: But when love finally showed up, P: she had a bowl cut. S: He wore the same clothes every day for a week. P: Love hated the bus. S: Love didn’t know anything about The Beatles. B: Instead, P: every time I try to kiss love, B: our teeth got in the way. S: Love became the reason I lied to my parents. P: I’m going to- Ben’s house. S: Love had terrible rhythm on the dance floor, but made sure we never missed a slow song. P: Love waited by the phone because she knew that if her father picked up it would be: S: “Hello? Hello? heavy breathing I guess they hung up.” P: And love grew, S: stretched like a trampoline. P: Love changed. S: Love disappeared, slowly, like baby teeth, losing parts of me I thought I needed. P: Love vanished like an amateur magician, and everyone could see the trapdoor but me. S: Like a flat tire, there were other places I had planned on going, B: but my plans didn’t matter. S: Love stayed away for years, and when love finally reappeared, I barely recognized him. P: Love smelled different now, had darker eyes, S: a broader back, love came with freckles I didn’t recognize. P: New birthmarks, a softer voice. S: Now there were new sleeping patterns, P: new favorite books. S: Love had songs that reminded him of someone else, P: songs love didn’t like to listen to. B: So did I. P: But we found a park bench that fit us perfectly, S: we found jokes that make us laugh. P: And now, love makes me fresh homemade chocolate chip cookies. S: But love will probably finish most of them for a midnight snack. P: Love looks great in lingerie but still likes to wear her retainer. S: Love is a terrible driver, but a great navigator. P: Love knows where she’s going, it just might take her two hours longer than she planned. S: Love is messier now, P: not as simple. S: Love uses the words “boobs” in front of my parents. P: Love chews too loud. S: Love leaves the cap off the toothpaste. P: Love uses smiley faces in her text messages. S: And turns out, B: love shits! S: But love also cries. And love will tell you you are beautiful P: and mean it, S: over and over again. P: You are beautiful. S: When you first wake up, P: “you are beautiful.” S: When you’ve just been crying, P: “you are beautiful.” S: When you don’t want to hear it, P: “you are beautiful.” S: When you don’t want to hear it, P: “you are beautiful.” S: When you don’t believe it, P: “you are beautiful.” S: When nobody else will tell you, P: “you are beautiful.” S: Love still thinks - you are beautiful. P: But love is not perfect and will sometimes forget, S: when you need to hear it most, B: you are beautiful, S: do not forget this. P: Love is not who you were expecting, love is not what you can predict. S: Maybe love is in New York City, already asleep, and you are in California, Australia, wide awake. Maybe love is always in the wrong time zone, P: maybe love is not ready for you. Maybe you are not ready for love. S: Maybe love just isn’t the marrying type. P: Maybe the next time you see love is twenty years after the divorce, love looks older now, but just as beautiful as you remembered. S: Maybe love is only there for a month. P: Maybe love is there for every firework, every birthday party, every hospital visit. S: Maybe love stays- P: maybe love can’t. B: Maybe love shouldn't. P: Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to, and love leaves exactly when love must. S: When love arrives, say, B: “Welcome. Make yourself comfortable.” P: If love leaves, ask her to leave the door open behind her. S: Turn off the music, listen to the quiet, P: whisper, B: “Thank you. Thank you for stopping by.”

[@andreadiaz1709]

KZbin Company thanks!

[@rutujapalkar4329]

Thanks

[@ravenlogical1887]

You missed India... she says “Maybe love is in New York City, already asleep, and you are in California, India, Australia, wide awake. Maybe love is always in the wrong time zone”

[@keiralucas8000]

KZbin Company “I just must be checking the wrong classrooms” “Just must be searching the wrong hallways”

[@lekshmil7215]

U missed india 🇮🇳

[@jezavu5411]

I stumbled upon this as a teenager who barely knew anything about how genuine connections, how genuine love works. My younger self only thought the words were beautiful but only to that extent. She was locked up in a close world. Now that I'm an adult, it's breathtaking how I now understand every line, the meaning of the pauses, and most importantly, their essence in my life. Indeed, "Time is the only thing in this world that understands how valuable Love is" (from a short story for children; unknown author). Can't wait to watch this again when I'm a bit older (and wiser).

[@caleetaylor]

I absolutely love when they speak together and it sounds like harmonies in a song it’s so beautiful :,)

[@embersofficial9567]

"Maybe love shouldn't."

[@astridhurtarte8231]

That part always gets to me.

[@death-nm9qz]

U will only love em when u let em go

[@kitluwi2495]

"Love arrives exactly when love is suppose to, and Love leaves exactly when love must" this line somehow taught me that those relationships that didn't last long wasn't wrong at all. at some point, both of you have truly loved each other. it's just that, both of you was just meant to fall in love but not to be together. your lines were meant to be intertwined but will end up going to opposite directions. but that's not the end of the line because it goes on. that experience wasn't just meant to cause pain but also to give a lesson... you did found true love, but you weren't suppose to keep it yet. why did i not see this vid three years ago? such a wonderful poem

[@BlueBluefox]

thats a good lesson learnt! i feel the same way! ^^

[@gladiatorinasuit3094]

I love your explanation especially since I'm going through a breakup and I have not been able to put it into words but this describes it accurately

[@gauravpande]

Thank you.

[@RealNigga0190]

think I came right on time. during a time where I just don't feel like living. I've overcome my martyr feelings. putting the blame on myself only assuming no one else made any mistakes. blaming myself only for all that has transpired. I've overcome it. I'm tired of thinking i'm the only one who has to make the change. That i'm the only one who can do anything wrong. I'm tired of letting people walk over me. Love comes and it goes. I've learned that bearing all the hate for all problems is not a way to love or live. This is a self-destructive way of living/loving. This pain has taught me to speak my mind, and be true to myself. The love i lost has taught me that I am much more than a mistake. I'm much more than people's problems. Not everything I do is wrong in essence, but not everything I do is right. There's a balance

[@kitluwi2495]

I am so glad that it helped you somehow. Thank you

[@makkattack00]

I listened to this for the first time after my first heartbreak, and here I am again 7 years later. It’s meaning has changed for me, and it’s just a poignant as ever

[@xanderboucher]

“Love vanished like an amateur magician..everyone could see the trapdoor but me.” Perfection at its finest

[@Bander098]

When love arrives, say "Welcome! make yourself comfortable" If love leaves, ask her to "leave the door open behind her, turn off the music" listen to the quiet, and whisper, "thank you for stopping by" cryiing

[@cheyennejohns2002]

Those are my favorite lines

[@elizabethg7821]

"Love vanished, like an amateur magician. Everyone could see the trap door but me" So relatable, my stomach started to knot after hearing that...

[@RichardSmith-qw7kh]

Hi pretty lady. How are you doing today?

[@bellossom2576]

"Maybe love shouldn't. ", kills me everytime

[@sanskritigupta5422]

7 years ago i saw this for the first time and it still feels fresh

[@ButtonPoetry]

7 years is a long time! Thanks for coming back =)

[@JadelessBlack]

Ive listened to this so many times....wish I could see them live.

[@AndreaPerez-xn7nv]

I know, me too

[@lmaizlish]

I saw them live last week and they were incredible!

[@ashk504]

Eda E. I think this is my 50000th time listening haha

[@SHYAMLEE143]

Same here :)

[@iexplrz3080]

Eda E. They used to go to my school for free but after they blew up they havent came back in a while

[@marialandaluce2439]

" love is a terrible driver but a great navigator " that couldn't describe my love any more

[@angie-ns7ow]

This video lives rent free in my mind

[@ayushmittal9956]

Can't believe it's been 8 years since this was released. I have been coming back to it almost every free months for past 5 years and it's beautiful. Thank you to these two beautiful souls 💙

[@alizajoyce2085]

When Love Arrives by Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye I knew exactly what love looked like - in seventh grade Even though I hadn’t met love yet, if love had wandered into my homeroom, I would’ve recognized him at first glance. Love wore a hemp necklace. I would’ve recognized her at first glance, love wore a tight french braid. Love played acoustic guitar and knew all my favorite Beatles songs. Love wasn’t afraid to ride the bus with me. And I knew, I just must be searching the wrong classrooms, just must be checking the wrong hallways, she was there, I was sure of it. If only I could find him. But when love finally showed up, she had a bow cut. He wore the same clothes every day for a week. Love hated the bus. Love didn’t know anything about The Beatles. Instead, every time I try to kiss love, our teeth got in the way. Love became the reason I lied to my parents. I’m going to- Ben’s house. Love had terrible rhythm on the dance floor, but made sure we never missed a slow song. Love waited by the phone because she knew if her father picked up it would be: “Hello? Hello? I guess they hung up.” And love grew, stretched like a trampoline. Love changed. Love disappeared, Slowly, like baby teeth, losing parts of me I thought I needed. Love vanished like an amateur magician, and everyone could see the trapdoor but me. Like a flat tire, there were other places I planned on going, but my plans didn’t matter. Love stayed away for years, and when love finally reappeared, I barely recognized him. Love smelt different now, had darker eyes, a broader back, love came with freckles I didn’t recognize. New birthmarks, a softer voice. Now there were new sleeping patterns, new favorite books. Love had songs that reminded him of someone else, songs love didn’t like to listen to. So did I. But we found a park bench that fit us perfectly We found jokes that make us laugh. And now, love makes me fresh homemade chocolate chip cookies. But love will probably finish most of them for a midnight snack. Love looks great in lingerie but still likes to wear her retainer. Love is a terrible driver, but a great navigator. Love knows where she’s going, it just might take her two hours longer than she planned. Love is messier now, not as simple. Love uses the words “boobs” in front of my parents. Love chews too loud. Love leaves the cap off the toothpaste. Love uses smiley faces in her text messages. And turns out, love shits! But love also cries. And love will tell you you are beautiful and mean it, over and over again. “You are beautiful.” When you first wake up, “you are beautiful.” When you’ve just been crying, “you are beautiful.” When you don’t want to hear it, “you are beautiful.” When you don’t believe it, “you are beautiful.” When nobody else will tell you, “you are beautiful.” Love still thinks you are beautiful. But love is not perfect and will sometimes forget, when you need to hear it most, you are beautiful, do not forget this. Love is not who you were expecting, love is not who you can predict. Maybe love is in New York City, already asleep; You are in California, Australia, wide awake. Maybe love is always in the wrong time zone. Maybe love is not ready for you. Maybe you are not ready for love. Maybe love just isn’t the marrying type. Maybe the next time you see love is twenty years after the divorce, love is older now, but just as beautiful as you remembered. Maybe love is only there for a month. Maybe love is there for every firework, every birthday party, every hospital visit. Maybe love stays- maybe love can’t. Maybe love shouldn’t. Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to, And love leaves exactly when love must. When love arrives, say, “Welcome. Make yourself comfortable.” If love leaves, ask her to leave the door open behind her. Turn off the music, listen to the quiet, whisper, “Thank you for stopping by.”

[@anamingas]

Thank you SO much.

[@oceanofhorses]

tracking for future reference

[@archeryangel]

you're amazing

[@GenesisSalazarVEVO]

Aliza Joy CE ♡

[@twobirds5921]

Aliza Joy CE your poor fingers

[@kap3851]

Dude at the end of Phil saying "You are beautiful." When he didn't say it, that shit hit me.

[@giovanicamara869]

Carson Kappenman bro I felt that one too. I think complimenting or being complimented by the person you love can lead to dependency if you don't believe it yourself.

[@ankushsaxena1632]

@@giovanicamara869 🙏🏻🙌🏻

[@farwahehee8087]

I just uploaded my poem as well Can you guys please check it out💕

[@christinepeace1738]

Same man same

[@rea_keebine]

I first came across this poem in highschool and it's almost 10 years after high school now and I still come back to it. Always a different person when I listen to it. I will forever love and appreciate it. It has a special place in my heart ❤️

[@SpillPoetryOnline]

Beautiful as always ❤

[@heggz_reads]

I was just gonna watch a tutorial on how to color my hair and now I ended up here, four hours later, crying over beautiful poetry.

[@safiyarani4448]

@FilipinoGamer300 it probably fell out lmao

[@yourmidnights13]

I've watched this literally COUNTLESS times.

[@the1Darkrose]

I am with you on that. I listen to this instead of music everyday when I am getting ready. By this point I could probably recite it.

[@sutlive22]

The1Darkrose, Have you listened to Phil Kaye's "For My Grandmother"? I think you would like that piece, if you like Sarah Kay's work. -Regards, Sam.

[@simratkaurwaan7849]

Same. This is just so beautiful. Always feels new when you hear it.

[@ardinayuliani9190]

Even when I remembered every single words I still rerun this😂

[@kristinetaborlupa2402]

Its been almost 8 years and this spoken poetry never fails to touch my heart each time I listen to it

[@michxll.]

i remember have watched this video a few years ago and every time i come and rewatch this i cry, it's simply the most beautiful poetry i've heard

[@poeticpotato]

Such a soft poem... I love it. I love the ratio of funny to serious comments. It's just right.

[@umusbozdag3127]

ladi

[@singerg02]

"Love arrives exactly when Love is supposed to. And Love leaves exactly when Love must." This line broke me. 😢💔

[@brymarie8]

Still coming back after YEARS 🤭🫶🏽

[@taliayeah1889]

I have come back to this poem every year for 7 years and I fall in love with it all over again every time.

[@taliayeah1889]

I’m back 😊

[@jessicajeronimo7837]

I listened to this ages ago when Love was not around to be seen and when I thought would never come. Now Love just left for me. It's good to know that I can - FINALLY - understand the whole poem. Love left the door open for me. Love helped me when I needed and told me I was beautiful. Now Love has a new Love on his own. And for the first time I'm happy for him... For the memories, the feelings, the grown woman I became because of him: thank you.

[@marcelacav]

this hit me harder than the actual poem

[@arri659]

I’m fuckin sobbin, mate. This poem hits hard.

[@Desi.Girlzz]

I'm inspired by you

[@starplini31]

I got a tattoo of “when love arrives” two years ago and I still know this poem by heart 😭

[@christinepeace1738]

Oh I love that as a tattoo idea

[@christinepeace1738]

LOL tattoo idea “love shits”

[@christinepeace1738]

But really... “love is beautiful” Or Maybe “Love is always in the wrong time zone” “Maybe love stays, Maybe love can’t Maybe love shouldn’tl Or “When love leaves... ask her to keep the door open”

[@startlethedaydreamer]

In a few weeks, it will be 2022, and everytime I check back on this whenever I need to reinspire myself to write, this is one of the materials I always look back. Also, this never fails to make my eyes teary. Such a masterpiece.

[@bigblur36]

Great arts move 👏

[@alistaircabrera8796]

I still come back to this poem after years and still feel the same drawn in emotion every time. Such a beautiful piece.

[@doriangreg1601]

OMG I LOVE THE WAY THEY EXCHANGE LINES HOLY CRAP

[@cassiemaayzombiesceks2256]

Seriously these two are perfect

[@jaded.6742]

Cassie Maay ZOMBIESCEKS are they an actual couple?😭😭

[@ishandubey4327]

NO! They are not a couple and they won't be. Listen to An Origin Story, you'll know.

[@mila4evah]

i showed her this video yesterday, we cried and then she kissed me. i feel like i’m dreaming, i just love her so much i feel so grateful for having her in my life

[@wakinguptooearly]

What an incredibly beautiful poem. The is poem, to me, is 1) a reminder of how important it is to stay absolutely present when Love arrives and to cherish every moment in this never-ending stream of life; and 2) another reminder to let love leave when love must. After my first long term relationship breakup after college - I broke. I didn't know how love anymore. I didn't know how to let go. Love had left the door, and I couldn't say goodbye. But the moment I learned to let go, I learned that Love comes in many forms and people. Whether that Love arrives in the form of another relationship, in the form of your friends, and family... Remember to thank Love, when Love leaves, and more importantly, don't forget to welcome Love when Love Arrives.

[@MsPurplePatti]

“Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to and love leaves exactly when love must.” ❤️

[@ratz220]

Do checkout my videos on spokenpoetry. And give me a feedback

[@andinic4390]

"Maybe love is always in the wrong time zone."

[@victoriaf1308]

😭

[@netartemisa]

I've lost counts of how many times I've watched this performance the past years, it still moves me like the first time 🥺

[@crzana__9680]

Ughhh! God knows how often I come back to this piece of arttttt.

[@irmavaldez5057]

"Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to, and love leaves exactly when love must." Amazing.

[@x0mi07]

After playing the original over and over again, it's super rewarding to hear them recite the same poem after a few years. The inflections are different, more mellowed out, more mature. They grew up and their interpretation has grown and evolved with it as well. I definitely enjoyed this performance.

[@maddycribbs1888]

I remember listening to this piece as I walked to the bus stop before school in middle school. I graduated high school in 2021, and I had forgotten about this piece until now. But now, as I listen, I am on the verge of tears because it's exactly what I need to hear.

[@MrAriana947]

this is my all time favorite poem... i send this to everyone who will listen 🥹 i've been revisiting over and over again for more than 7 years 🥹 will never get old 🤍

[@mbpchan]

I first saw this when I was 15, just before love came into my life. Now I'm 17, browsing through youtube when I stumbled upon this gem by chance. It's been months since love left, and my heart still aches. "Love arrives exactly when love is supposed to" and so do words of inspiration and encouragement such as this. Thank you, Sarah and Phil.

[@sanriobambi]

that last part has me in TEARS

[@esteeeela]

I just can't get enough of this poem. I see comments of people saying they come when they have a heartbroken, but I come just because. It's beautiful. And it's not the same without their interpretation.

[@azul4904]

they make such a good duo for this poem. i lost count of how many times i’ve seen it and i keep coming back to it

[@LukeK1097]

I come back regularly to listen to this when I'm having a lonely day. It is so beautiful and the last part gets to me every time.

[@Sing4ever9]

"When nobody else will tell you (You are beautiful), Love still thinks... You are beautiful." Still one of my most favorite lines from this poem.

[@PragzHearts]

this poem hits different every time I come back to it.

[@silenceddreamer8565]

"Love still thinks, you are beautiful". I adore these two so much.

[@taylormarrie6957]

i needed this tonight

[@muskaaaaaan]

Same.

[@Taschamcfly]

Me too

[@sadhanamoodley99]

I cried.

[@TheMediaQueer]

One of my all time favorites. I love Sarah and phil.

[@ashexxxx]

Here after my second heartbreak. As much as it hurts, I know this pain is temporary. Love will arrive again.

[@erickrocha3747]

I come back after 2 years. And men, each word is perfect

[@barby1998super]

This is so beautiful. It makes me cry every time I heard it and it gives me a different perspective every time.

[@legzandherpiano]

plagiarism

[@jessxo4363]

This completely changed my view on love. Love isn’t a person, it’s a thing. It made everything so much easier, I love this ❤️

[@snehakatariaa4853]

It's a feeling ♥️

[@firman7115]

Its a verb

[@laibabaig3937]

Beautiful 🫀 "Thank you for stopping by "

[@anamendes6250]

Everytime I feel a little sad and hopeless about finding love again I come here to watch this video. It comforts me in ways I can't even explain.

[@stina5547107]

I was introduced to this years ago. I think the first video I watched was from 2013, and that was before I met Love. I always felt a sense of comfort and peace whenever I watched it. Now that I have met Love and am in the processing of letting Love go, I thought of this. It's a beautiful piece, gracefully delivered. It wasn't a mistake to meet Love, to get to know Love, to let Love in. It wasn't a waste of time because...Love takes on different shapes and forms depending where you are in life. Love may not be able to stay now, but it doesn't mean Love won't show up later.

[@saphirexD]

"maybe love shouldn't" damn

[@ashk504]

Andrea Yeong destroyed me first 5,000 times I heard that part.

[@awenopasaber]

The first time I heard this poem was 6 years ago I remembered that love from when I was 23 and how I felt I lost parts of me I thought I needed it. Then I felt grateful for having him at least for a while. Now, every once in a while I come back to hear it again. Always hits different.

[@skater123256]

I met love in 5th grade, she was always breathtakingly beautiful. I knew I never had a shot with her. Throughout the years we had seen each other a few times even hung out as we were friends with the same people. I knew she was way out of my league, she was in my close friend group in junior year I saw her almost everyday and every dude in my circle would drool over her but not me cuz I didn’t wanna kid myself because I knew she was out of my league. I met up with love a couple years after high school we had both matured, she was still breathtakingly beautiful as always and something in her eyes told me that maybe leagues weren’t real that maybe the league I put myself in was something I made up and was holding me back. I let my guard down and gave love a chance, we exploded, we pushed, we pulled, we lost, we found. We grew as one. And when my daughter asks me how I met her mother I’ll start by telling her first off, always remember no one is out of your league.

[@razz6475]

Oo myyyy... Why is this so beautiful??? This is brilliant🤍.

[@upoma028]

You write up is filled with love..

[@anjuliechandoladobhal6699]

Such a beautiful love story

[@kiki1188661]

love stopped by but i closed the door on him, turned off the light and held back the words with my tongue. he left thinking there was nobody home, but i was. i was there watching the light creeping through the crack under the door. Light, darkness, light, darkness, light. Silhouette of a pair of shoes, sneaking in and slipping through. Coming alive before me was the idea of you. Oh how careless of me to leave a crack when i swore it's not love my heart's for. Love? Now all that left is his scent haunting the hallway. Breathe in, breathe out. Shhhhh. Can you hear the ghosts? Whispers. What could have been? What could have been? What could have been? I think, my heart is haunted. So yes, welcome love when it arrives. Goodbyes exist only when there are hellos.

[@vsboardza]

Did you write this?

[@missyhilary8905]

Maggie Chau maybe you should be writing and speaking this stuff. That was beautiful, also.

[@uhoh9225]

this ..is beautiful.

[@bloodlust2478]

*Snaps* True beauty

[@citrusnostalgia6644]

+

[@MaggieFulmer]

I've loved this poem for sooooo long. And when I saw this in my subscriptions I got super excited. These two are something else.

[@ThePanini4]

It's okay to cry. Love is in tears too.

[@highon_meowijuana]

And even years later, this is still my favorite piece😍😍