Learning

[kaimelarfeylove]

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
and with the grace of an adult,
not the grief of a child.

And you learn to build your own roads today
because tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain for your plans
and futures have a way of falling down in flight.

After a while you learn that even sunshine burns if you get too much.

So you plant your own garden and decorate
your own soul instead of waiting for
someone to bring you flowers.

And you learn that you really are strong,
and can endure,
and that you really do have a worth.

And you learn, and you learn again,
and with every good-bye you learn.