How very bleak my life would be if I had shed no tears.
If I hadn't cried hysterically, if I'd never had to miss,
I wouldn't know the wonderous peace I've found in happiness.
And if I hadn't fallen for a line or greater con,
I wouldn't have this solid ground I'm finally standing on.
I'm grateful for my enemies, and every ache I've known.
Without them, love would only be a word. I'd not have grown.
If I hadn't been distracted, thrown off course or pushed aside,
I wouldn't know the golden glow my heart has - filled with pride.
And if I hadn't laid it on the line and lost it all,
I doubt that I would know the joys of all things great and small.
I've learned to take the bitter things, as if a grain of salt,
Acknowlege any pain it brings, but instead of placing fault,
I study all the twists and turns and obstacles and then,
I realize that only I can prevent those pains again.
I've learned so much from where I've been, they've taught me how to steer.
Without the memories flooding in, I'd surely not be here.
I've learned to like the bitter things, they've helped me clearly see -
Without them what a very lonely place this world would be.
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