After a while you learn the subtle difference

After a while you learn the subtle difference
 between holding a hand and claiming 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 learn to accept your defeats 
with your head up and your eyes open, 
with the grace of a man or woman , 
not with the grief of a child...
And you learn to build your roads on today 
because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plan's 
and futures have a way of falling down midflight
And after a while you learn that 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 really do have worth...
And you realise at the coming of dawn
 That you hold the breath of a new day in your hands, 
And though you have been hurt by someone close, 
another day is yours to fashion...

VGS'98