After a while

After awhile you learn the subtle difference between holding a hand and chaining a soul,
And you learn that love doesn't meanleaning and company,and it 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 you never know what will happen tomorrow.

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

And you learn to plant you 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