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
   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.

                                             -Veronica A. Shoffstall