After a While...

After a while you learn the subtle difference between holding a hand
and chaining a soul...

And you learn that kisses aren't contracts and presents aren't
promises...

And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning and company doesn't mean
security...

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 of 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, and that you really are
strong and you really do have worth!