While searching for a quote I ran across this poem by Veronica Shoffstall, and, like many others, I found that it “spoke” to me. Perhaps it speaks to you as well.
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 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 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 really are strong,
And you really do have worth.
And you learn and learn…
With every goodbye you learn.
Veronica A Shoffstall
The Shoffstall poem has long been one of my favourites…thank you for printing it today — it’s often good to be reminded of how we can best treat ourselves. And your photograph is gorgeous!!!
Isn’t it a wonderful poem …
Your lilac photo is so lovely, Barb, beautiful word art too !
And what a wonderful poem !
Nice week,
Sylvia
Thank you Sylvia xo
Love EVERYTHING about this post Barb!
Gorgeous lilac image & “after a while” poem is one of my favourites.
Beautiful, creative Word art.
Thank you so much Deb!
wow. powerful.
I love the image and your beautiful soft processing…just elegant. The poem is one of my favorites and I’m so glad to be reminded of it today. Just what I needed to here! Have a wonderful day!
What a beautiful poem, thank you so much for sharing it with us today. And thank you too for sharing your beautiful word art. Gorgeous image with those stunning lilacs!!
Beautiful Barb I love your style…. Thanks for the brush it’s lovely…
Beautiful poem. Wonderful texturing!!
Gorgeous photo!
I have had this poem in my book for years ~ when I used to have a journal and write poems myself ~ it has always been a favourite.
Awesome poem! I am so glad you shared this, Barb. Lovely lilacs too,
Gorgeous lilacs and beautiful poem! Love your inspiring posts!
Oh Barb,
I truly like both the before and after….. I’m glad I don’t have to pick a favorite…. Great poem too as it also spoke to me, thanks for sharing such perfect words and images.
Warm regards,
Karla
oh i love your poem… your lilacs and even the planter! beautiful processing…
that is such a beautiful poem and isn’t it so true!
Wonderful quote Barb, the older we become the more the truths expressed here become apparent. Your photo is gorgeous – as always!
Beautiful.
Earl
I hadn’t read this poem before Barb. It’s fabulous. I’m so glad you shared it.
Hi Celine! I’m so happy you enjoyed it! It’s one of my favourites!