After a While....You Learn
 
 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 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 becausetomorrow'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.