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After a while you learn the subtle difference between holding a hand and chaining a soul.
And you learn that loves 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 ahead with the grace of a woman or man not the grief of a child,
and 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 a while you learn that even sunshine burns if you ask 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.....

-V.A.S.