Surprises

I know why I have never liked surprises
In childhood, Mom used them to deny me what
I really wanted, and get what she thought
I ought to have. One year, a frock, far too hot
Once, a pair of hockey sticks (I never played!)
She then said the money was already spent
and I could not get the book I wanted or
the pretty necklace that cost less than half what
she had blown away. So now, when someone shouts
"Surprise!" i cringe inwardly, but say 'Thank you'
And remind myself, "I am an adult now."