On Smoking......

He stood there facing the firing squad

His hands were tied behind

Refused the benefit of blindfold

To keep a focus in his mind

His eyes glued on the red telephone

Next to the Warden's post

Still hoping for the Governor's call

A reprieve to save his toast

He asked for a final cigarette

But coughed and spat it in the weeds

Stared straight out at the shooters

Forgiving them their deeds

"READY" ordered the squad captain

Five rifles raised and locked

"AIM" became his next command

All five rifles aimed and cocked

Then at last the phone rang out

Sounding like an Angel's choir

But some idiot spotted the smoldering butt

Then panicked and shouted ... "FIRE!"--

* * *

(You've heard that smoking can be dangerous to your health!)

[© 2004 Pecozbill]