A New Dawn

After awhile, you learn the subtle difference

between holding a hand, and chaining a soul.

And that love doesn't mean leaning,

and company doesn't mean security

And you begin to learn that kisses are not 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 awhile, you learn that even sunshine burns when 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 can endure...

That you really are strong,

That you really do have worth,

And you learn and you learn.....

With every goodbye, you learn.