Beautiful Life Lessons

After a while you learn the difference, subtle difference,

between holding a hand and chaining a soul,

And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning

and company doesn't always 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 ahead,

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,

and futures have a way of falling down mid-flight.

Afte a while you learn that even sunshine burns

If you get too much.

So plant a garden and decorate your own soul,

instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers

And you learn that you really can ensure..

that you really are strong.

And you really have worth.

-Veronica A. Shorffstall