Outward Bound Reading

Originally posted on Apr. 22, 2010

After a while you learn the difference, subtle difference

between holding a hand and chaining 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 begin to accept your defeats,

with your head up and your eyes open

With the grace of an adult,

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.

After a while you learn that even sunshine burns,

if you get too much.

So 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.

Author: Veronica Shoffstall

From Voyageur Outward Bound School Readings Book