I used to smoke a lot and every cold
resulted in bronchitis that would last
for weeks. The cough was chronic, uncontrolled,
and sometimes it came on so strong and fast
I’d wrench a rib, and then I had to hold
a pillow when I sneezed or even laughed.
I stopped inhaling smoke. I turned that off,
but now it pains my sternum when I cough.

(Ottava Rima)