Like everyone, I am over this virus business and want so much to move along, but I fear, in the U.S., we may be at the start of what is not a sprint, but a marathon. Because writing helps me process life and keep a level head, I once again find myself sharing words that focus on this infectious spread.
When I begin to thinkabout the many needs
surrounding me,
surrounding you,
surrounding them,
surrounding humanity,
suffocation begins
to settle in.
Having a grip on me,
the constant news feed
sends my thoughts into a frenzy.
Serving the overwhelming needs
of family,
of neighbors,
of friends,
of humanity,
seems out of reach.
But, I know I should turn off the t.v.
and not wait for another,
because helping my fellow humans
should begin with me.
Torn, I am, between flattening
the curve and raising a hand
for elder family members,
for isolated neighbors,
for long-lost friends.
But, how am I to know
if me helping him,
endangers them?
Wanting to help, not harm,
keeping a distance, I will continue
and I will also choose to move beyond
rampant uncertainty,
runaway worry,
and paralyzing passivity.
Personal power and inner grace I will exert
over a situation that has made many, inert.
I recognize that making a difference
during this fragmented existence
begins with me,
and it begins with you,
and it begins with them,
lovingly offering gifts, that to
each of us, were graciously given.
As each person is unique, so are the gifts
we can deliver, if need be, from afar.
A song can fill a lonely heart.
A wave can lift a weary soul.
A poem can slow a busy mind and
hurried breath.
An offer to shop can fill a stomach
and help to slow the spread.
A willingness to feed and serve yourself,
and still tip someone else,
may keep a roof over someone’s head.
A charitable donation takes care of spiritual leaders
who take care of us during life’s many phases,
whether that be birth, marriage, troubles, or death.
An online purchase may keep local stores afloat.
Quiet prayers from the masses
can help calm this storm.
No gesture is too small, for these are grand
human abilities, that did not appear in our
hearts and in our hands by happenstance.
Even if our gift does not provide
direct life support,
another life we surely can support,
by reaching within and graciously
giving our individual gifts away.
Let’s see through closed doors
and see each other in our time of need.
Let’s pause any temporary needs we
may have, that will certainly pass,
and continue to support those
who must drive away from a sheltered family,
who step daily into an unrecognizable war
and an uncertain future,
who keep rolls turning in our tiniest rooms,
who keep our carts, plates, and cups full,
who protect us from the unexpected,
who are selflessly serving strangers,
who are hidden, but not fully protected
by homemade masks,
and those who are fighting their own fears
against an enemy they can’t see.
Let’s be prudent, generous, and strong.
Let’s continue to do our part,
so those bravely answering
the call to serve humanity,
may see above a growing curve
and see the light of another day.
And when that day comes and the sun
finally sets on this rippling catastrophe,
let’s remember the lives we have lost
and the lessons we have learned.
Thank you for stopping by and reading my poem about a topic that was thrust upon us, and from every direction we feel its effects.
Stay safe, stay centered, be well and help your distant neighbor, whenever you can. May you continue to find inspiration in this sheltered, yet unprotected world. Michele ❤️
Picture 1: Sunflowers in my backyard Picture 2: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area @ Sunset, Tucson, Arizona Picture 3: Spending time with my family in Crescent City, California when traveling was a safe endeavor (husband behind the camera)
Copyright © 2020 Michele Lee Sefton. All Rights Reserved.
My Inspired Life 
Lovely, Michelle. May I share it?
Sent from my iPhone
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Thank you. Yes, of course. Feel free to share any of my poems or stories. Gifts given to me that I freely give away. ❤️ Hope you and your family are managing this madness.
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Michele, your words are gifts to share. Thank you
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Thank you. ❤️
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