Paper Dreams

Beggars seldom get to choose,
shriveled stomachs eat what's at hand.
And suffering whatever fate deals,
innocence fails to understand.

Desire is hard to ignore,
despite risk of pain or shame.
For hearts are eager to explore,
when love ignites passion's flame.

Blinded by promises of bliss,
youth feels its way in the dark.
And within fantasy's realm,
chases love's ever elusive spark.

Lies once stripped of luster,
slowly tear paper dreams apart.
Yet the scars from betrayal's sting,
will only strengthen their heart.

There are times that life offers
more to shun than to embrace.
And yet love guides fledgling hearts,
to another, better place.