“Good for you”

“Good for you”

“Well, good for you!” I came to say, a fallback phrase I’d gained

As fodder for the small talk when a conversation waned.

Whatever someone told me, I would “Good for you!” respond

Which seemed an affirmation of a fleeting, friendly bond.

No matter the occasion, it was “Good for you” I’d quip;

But soon I came to realize it sounded trite or flip.

Determined to improve myself, to halt the phrase — betray it —

I vowed to kick the habit — yes, no longer would I say it.

The person I’d confided in now offered her review,

Consoling me with pitied look and saying, “Good for you!”

Don Munday