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 eyes open and your head held high.

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 to uncertain for plans.

So you plant your own garden,

And decorate your own soul

And stop waiting for someone to bring you flowers.

And you learn that you really can endure,

That you really are strong, and you really do have worth.

And you learn........and you learn....

With every good bye, you learn