Coughing, Coughing

We etched our names into the Tree of Life
Giggling childishly, nervous to be caught
We scarred the mountains, seas, while blithe
And did not consider what damage we’d wrought

We all strive to make a name for ourselves
We all raise a glass to better health
Then coughing, coughing, we lay to rest
Mocking the cough that is second best

Photo by Jamie Coupaud on Unsplash