How Many Ways can I Microwave thee…

How do I microwave thee? Let me count the ways.
I microwave thee to the depth and breadth and height
My microwaves can penetrate, when remaining out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I microwave thee to the level of every day’s
Most quiet need, by sun and by antenna.
I microwave thee freely, as men strive for right.
I microwave thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I microwave thee with the energy put to use
In my old griefs, and with my child’s health.
I microwave thee with a radiation I seem to lose track of
With my lost saints. I microwave thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but microwave thee better after death.

Adapted from:
How Do I Love Thee? (Sonnet 43)
Elizabeth Barrett Browning, 1806 – 1861