After A While

Veronica A. Shoffstall

After a while you learn the subtle differences
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 see 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 a grief of a child
And you begin to build all your roads of today
Because tomorrow's grounds 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 learn that you can endure…
That you really are strong
And you really do have worth.