AFTER A WHILE........

I've heard this credited to Veronica Shoffstall, and I've heard that disputed.

I've heard it entitled "Comes the Dawn" and "After A While."

Doesn't really matter; the words are brilliant, and a great inspiration to take the
road of higher emotions and leave the insanity of bondage and limitations in the
past.

I was reminded of how much I love--and need to incorporate--the message of
this poem at a phenomenal meeting last night, wherein an important influence
and inspiration in my life was being honored. The message's presence was timely
and appreciated, just like my friend.

Hopefully, you can see some truths in the piece, and make your way to honoring
the good in the world by setting it free, and being easy.

Blessings, Robert

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After a While

After a while you learn
The subtle difference between
Holding a hand and chaining a soul
And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't always 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
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
And futures have a way
Of falling down in mid flight

After a while 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 really strong
And you really do have worth
And you learn and you learn
With every good bye you learn.

Veronica A. Shoffstall