After a while

"After a while you learn the subtle difference between
holding a hand and chaining a soul.
And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning and
that 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 and 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 your 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 will learn that you can endure that you really are special
and that you really do have worth.
So live to learn and know yourself.
In doing so, you will learn to live."




Veronica A. Shoffstall