Into the Light

After awhile 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, with the grace of an adult

and not the grief of a child.

And you learn to build all of your roads on today

because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plans.

After awhile you learn that even sunshine can

burn 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