After a while you learn

After a while you learn

the subtle difference between holding a hand and chining 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 defeat with your head up and your eyes ahead

and you learn

to build all your roads on today because tomorrows ground is

too uncertain for plans 

and futures have a way of falling down in mid-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 yo really can endure

you really are strong

you really do have worth

and you learn 

and you learn 

and you learn

with every goodbye you learn       

                                            Veronica A. Shoffstall