Today I broke a promise
to the little girl
who vowed to be different
from the rest of her family
Today I broke a promise
to the smiling siblings
saying, "Don't be us"
who were so proud
Today I broke a promise
to the future I held
which was so bright
and so promising
Today I broke a promise
to the children
I will someday have
as they gag, "Mommy, that's gross"
Today as I drew the cigarette
to my chapped young lips
inhaling the revoltingly sweet flavor;
I broke a promise.