better be good

when you were a child

there was always

a surprise waiting at the bottom

of a box,

some tiny gift made of plastic

that would entertain you

for a few minutes.

there was the tooth fairy

with her dimes,

the birthday bribe,

santa and his sleigh, the easter

bunny with candy

and eggs.

it was as if the world was

preparing you for all the lies

that were yet to come.

getting you used to the idea

of disappointment.

of having things come undone.