PLANTING A HEART IN YOUR GARDEN

After a while you learn the
subtle difference between holding
a hand and chaining a soul.

And you learn that love
doesn't mean learning and
company doesn't mean security.

And you begin to learn
that kisses aren't contracts and presents
are promises.

And you begin to accept your
defeats with your head up and your
eyes open, with the grace of an
adult, 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.

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

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

And you learn that you
really can endure....that you
really are strong.

And you really have worth.
and you learn
and you learn
with every goodbye, you learn...


.........................Author ©1971 Veronica A. Shoffstall