After much thought, I have adopted a smile.
Everyone always said I needed one to be complete;
absolutely could not have a full life without it.
As if life is a glass of water
standing on time’s table.

Do it sooner, they said,
so you both can grow up together.
It’s easier when you’re young
and still have the energy.

I had already raised a few little monsters.
My frowns and pouts and scowls
were in full bloom and flourishing.
How much harder could this be?
Smiles are easy to babysit.
I liked the idea of nurturing one as mine.

So, we brought home this shy wee thing.
She’s still getting used to the place,
nervous around her siblings.
But I am happy to report
every day her confidence grows
and soon, I hope
she will call us her family.