I've learned ... 
that your family won't always 
be there for you. It may seem funny, 
but people you aren't related to 
can take care of you and love you 
and teach you to trust people again. 
Families aren't biological. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that no matter how good a friend is, 
they're going to hurt you 
every once in a while 
and you must forgive them for that. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that it isn't always enough 
to be forgiven by others. 
Sometimes you have to learn 
to forgive yourself. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that no matter how bad 
your heart is broken 
the world doesn't stop for your grief. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that our background and circumstances 
may have influenced who we are, 
but we are responsible for who we become. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that sometimes when my friends fight, 
I'm forced to choose sides 
even when I don't want to. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that just because two people argue, 
it doesn't mean they don't love each other 
And just because they don't argue, 
it doesn't mean they do. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that sometimes you have to put 
the individual ahead of their actions. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that we don't have to change friends 
if we understand that friends change. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that you shouldn't be so 
eager to find out a secret. 
It could change your life forever. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that two people can look 
at the exact same thing 
and see something totally different. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that no matter how you try to protect 
your children, they will eventually get hurt 
and you will hurt in the process. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that there are many ways of falling 
and staying in love. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that no matter the consequences, 
those who are honest with themselves 
get farther in life. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that no matter how many friends you have, 
if you are their pillar you will feel lonely 
and lost at the times you need them most. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that your life can be changed 
in a matter of hours 
by people who don't even know you. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that even when you think 
you have no more to give, 
when a friend cries out to you, 
you will find the strength to help. 
 
 
I've learned ... 
that writing, as well as talking, 
can ease emotional pains. 
 
 
