The fine Line

The fine line between the time it takes to inhale and exhale, is what keeps us alive,

However, a world pandemic struck, and for some, there was no longer the option to survive.

Like a deer in headlights, blinded by heaven’s calling.

Crowds started to separate, people needed to evaluate and be given some validation.

The storm boiled under one’s breath, boats started to capsize, drown, with no hesitation.

Weeping echoes among hospitals, tears falling.

“Stay at home, save lives, protect the NHS”, they said. “Social distancing must apply.”

But the shadows of many that no longer exist, meant grief had too be suffered alone. No goodbye.

Wash your hands, this is contagious.

The loss of communication through touch, meant words spoke a deeper meaning,

Slowly, everything changed drastically. It was reality, no longer dreaming.

Help. Please, save us.

The hurt we feel as we notice the number of deaths increase,

Yet, we pray there is a decrease with the decease that was brought among this disease.

Thursday, it is eight o’clock in the evening: clap for the NHS.

Key workers, putting their lives on the line, helping those in critical need,

Petitions signed; money donated - benefiting the health service - posted online. Instagram feed.

Reassure your baby that it will be okay, give their cheek a gentle caress.

Encouraged to keep two metres apart, getting your groceries felt somewhat awkward,

Contact was limited, everyone felt restricted. Just wear your mask, otherwise you will be viewed as a coward.

Although time is something, we cannot control, it feels like it has come to a stop.

Events on hold, education online, family and friends we can no longer see,

Like an anchor holding us down, no light in sight, deep at the bottom of the sea.

The News: a frequent reminder that this is not a fictional storyline picked out from a bookshop.

Our experiences separately during this time will differ,

You may have lost a loved one, been a victim of abuse, felt intense hunger (due to living in poverty) – these are the people that really suffer.

Hold them in our thoughts, check up on the people you love.

Because the solitude that still exists is greater than some believe, even with all these souls in the universe,

This worldwide epidemic is not something that we can reverse.

A blessing in disguise, we hold onto the desire of closure and peace. Like a dove sent from above.

When the last case is recorded, and we no longer must feel strain,

A wave of relief will overcome us, no more pain.

But, remember, life is always changing.

Buckle your seatbelts, because it will inevitably be a long ride,

Meanwhile, when we overcome this together, when that time comes, stand up and take pride.

Acknowledge each other on the streets, for it is smiles we should be exchanging.