After a while

you learn the subtle difference between

holding a hand & chaining a soul;

And you learn

that love doesn't mean leaning &

company doesn't mean security;

And you begin

to learn that kisses aren't contracts

& presents aren't promises;

And you begin to accept your defeats with your head up

& your eyes open, with the grace of an

adult, not the grief of a child;

And you learn

to build all your roads 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

& decorate your own soul instead of

waiting for someone to bring you flowers.

And you will learn that you really can endure...

that you really are strong...

& you really do have worth.

-Unknown