The first time you were rebellious,
      and so all you learned was pain.

The second time, your spirit tamed a bit,
      you learned not to allow the pain to turn your feelings into hatred.

This last time, your heart too weary to fight,
      perhaps you managed to learn forgiveness.

Next time, for there will be a next time,
      maybe you will learn to continue to offer yourself despite the pain.

And, if you are lucky, after that
      perhaps you will learn to truly love.

10 December 1991