Veronica A. Shoffstall - After awhile you learn the subtle difference<br/>between holding a hand...

After awhile you learn the subtle difference<br/>between holding a hand and chaining a soul.<br/>And you learn that love doesn't mean security,<br/>And you begin to learn that kisses aren't contracts<br/>And presents aren't promises.<br/>And you begin to accept your defeats with you head up and your eyes open.<br/>With the grace of maturity, not the grief of a child.<br/>And you learn to build all your roads on<br/>Today because tommorow's ground is too uncertain for plans,<br/>And futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.<br/>After awhile you learn that even sunshine burns if you get too much.<br/>So you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul,<br/>Instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.<br/>And you learn that you really can endure..<br/>That you really are strong<br/>And that you really do have worth.<br/>And you learn and learn and learn..<br/>With every goodbye you learn.