After awhile, you learn ...
the subtle 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 a woman,
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.
And futures have a way of
falling down in midflight.

After awhile, you learn ...
That even sunshine burns
if you get too much.

So you 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!

And you learn and learn ...
With every goodbye, you learn.