Just One More Poem by Rebecca Paul

Just one more cigarette.
The smoke helps me breathe.
The nicotine clears my mind,
Gives me some room to believe.
So just one more smoke tonight.
I don’t really need it, but it can’t hurt.
Besides, I’ve been feeling kind of anxious.
My temper’s gotten short, my words, curt.

Just one more drink, I guess.
The booze keeps me numb.
Don’t want to voice any real opinions.
Let’s keep conversation dumb.
So just one more shot tonight,
Then I’ll try to get some sleep.
It’ll help keep my head heavy,
Along with all those secrets I keep.

Just one more argument.
Yelling keeps me grounded.
I like to see that vein in your head.
Hurtful words keep me well-rounded.
So just one more fight tonight,
Then I’ll sit and cry alone.
Put some ice on the swollen spots.
Just look how much I’ve grown.

Just one more superficial cut.
The blood reminds me I’m alive.
Hiding them is like a game.
They give me motivation and drive.
So just one more scar tonight.
Like anyone actually looks below my head.
Like anyone cares if I’m even alive,
But just one more smoke before I’m dead.