After a while

 from "Old Collection"

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.