AFTER A WHILE
After a while,
You learn the difference
between holding a hand
and chaining a soul,
And you learn,
That love doesn't mean leaning
and company
doesn't mean security.
And you begin,
To learn that kisses
aren't contracts and presents
aren't promises.
And you begin
To accept your defeats With
your head up and your eyes open,
With the grace of an adult,
Not the grief of a child.
And you learn,
To build all your roads on today
because tomorrow's ground is too
uncertain for plans.
After a while,
you learn that even
sunshine burns
if you get too much.
So plant your own garden,
And decorate your own soul,
instead of waiting for someone to
bring you flowers.
And you learn,
That you really can endure...
That you really are strong,
And you really do have worth.
~ Anonymous