Taking Photos Outta Their Frames

Comes The Dawn
After a while you learn the subtle difference
between holding a hand and chaining a soul.
You realize that love doesn't mean leaning
and company doesn't mean security.
And you learn that kisses aren't contracts
and presents aren't promises.
And you learn to accept your defeat with your head up
and your eyes open with the grace
of a woman or man - not the grief of a child.
And you learn to build your hopes on today
as tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain
as plans and futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.
And you learn that even sunshine burns 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.
And you learn that you really can endure,
that you are strong and you really have worth.
And you learn, and you learn, and you learn.
With every goodbye, you learn.

~Anonymous circa 2001