Nicotine and Time (Cost a Buck and a Dime)

I knew something was wrong
when you lifted that cigarette
between your fingers
and held it to your lips.

You sipped that casual smoke
I thought, "You puffed like a pro, buddy."
What happened to you? Where did you go?
The boy I once knew
was now addicted, and a man.

You high fived your cousin.
"You're one of us now," he said.
"I'm cool..." your voice wandered off.
A tear rolled down my cheek
and in my head, a voice raised in protest.

It was hard to see you go,
but in the end, it was bound to happen.
It's funny how over time
you think you get to know someone,
but in the blink of an eye they're gone
and you realize you have no idea who they really are.