Uncommon Sense

I've learned that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't mean security.

I've learned that kisses aren't contracts
And presents aren't promises.

And I've begun to accept my defeats
With the gentleness of a man, not the grief of a child.

I've learned to build all my roads on today
Because tomorrow's ground is too uncertain for plans.

It's taken a while to learn
That even sunshine burns if I get too much.

So, I plant my own garden and decorate my own soul
Instead of waiting for someone to bring me flowers.

And I've learned that I really can endure...
And that I really am strong...

And that I'm already good enough...
And I'm worthy of love...

And I learn and learn and learn.

(An adaptation by Gordon Clay of "Comes the Dawn" by Veronica Shoffstall)