After a while, you learn the subtle

difference

Between holding a hand and chaining

a soul,

And you learn that love doesn't mean

learning

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 a woman, 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 in mid-flight.

After a while, you learn

That even the sunshine burns if you

get to much.

So you plant your own garden and

decorate you 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 have worth.

And you learn and learn....

With every goodbye you learn.

Author Unknown