Per Pack

When I was a smoker, 50 cents 
Was what I paid per pack.
If I'd a dollar bill, I would
Get half my money back.

Today, while we were getting gas,
I saw there on display
The cigarettes lined up in boxes,
Waiting for their prey.

But I was staggered by the price,
For $13.29
Was the current going rate
And that should be a sign

That smoking isn't worth it -
Just alone due to the cost;
(And that's not even counting
All the lives that have been lost!)

healthrhyme

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Gershon Wolf

June 25, 2018 at 7:51 PM

Sticker shock, Ilene? … 'Course, what did you pay for the gasoline? Guess it wasn't anywhere near 50 cents (a gallon) either. … And how about the car you were driving? What'd that set you back? … They say that what goes up must come down. But I don't believe that they included prices in that axiom! Best wishes, gw

Artsieladie Sharon Donnelly

June 23, 2018 at 11:27 AM

You point out the ridiculousness well, Ilene. 'Course, at least $10 of the price goes to the government for taxes. The government is so concerned about our health, it sued the tobacco companies, only to turn around and use a major portion awarded to subsidize the tobacco growers. Go figure. Have a pleasant weekend. :) ~ Artsie

Lyric Man

June 22, 2018 at 10:48 PM

Ilene, I'm with you on this one. I was fortunate enough that I never engaged in this addictive (and expensive) habit. Once again your practical write hits the mark. Come see me when you can!

Rico Leffanta

June 22, 2018 at 9:37 PM

I smoked 2-4 packs per day for 35-years because I enjoyed it. Other people did not and priced me out of the market claiming it harmed their health - but, hey, government says its OK for me to smoke again providing its marijuana from one of their health shops! So smoking is still worth it to government! Aloha! Rico

Ilene Bauer

June 24, 2018 at 6:21 PM

wow! that's a lot of cigarettes, rico! i guess the second hand smoke is what causes all the problems for others. it is interesting how smoking marijuana is now being legalized in so many places. i'm in favor of it, but it is ironic, as you point out. thanks for writing. aloha to you, too...