Ordinary Breathing
We take for granted our breath
rarely catch ourselves trying to keep it
under control.
But
A child holds their breath ‘til blue to get their way
or dives below the surface on a summers day
lets bubbles out slow and watches them rise
a breath becomes the chain of life on which to climb
To draw in extra and sing an eight measure note
we marvel at artists feat to which some gloat
In youth’s freshness blow in hands to check
or slowly inhale mint before stealing a peck
We lie in bed at one a.m. inhale to the count of five
then release in an even steady sigh
Like sheep to sleep our breath expands
into REM rhythm nearly upon command
Listen to your breaths, deep truth inside
capturing life’s value in splendor and pride
in our focus on the glorious mundane
After Covid 19
It will be like cleaning up after a party.
Instead of plastic cups lying about
it will be masks.
instead of empty beer bottles and cans
it will be empty plastic hand sanitizers.
Instead of bleach and harsh cleansers
will use vinegar again.
We will collect refuse in extra plastic
bags wearing unnecessary nitrile gloves.
Wipe down tables with napkins or sleeves.
We won’t worry so much about
who used a sink to wash their hands and
if you wiped down the doorknob
a second
or third time.
We will sweep the glass off the streets,
remove social distancing foot prints and signs,
set plexiglass barriers beside dumpsters for recycling.
After CoVid we will give long warm hugs,
brush hair off other people’s cheeks,
shake hands to determine the confidence of others
in just one pump,
never two.
Overgrown
Our lives can become overgrown with energy
drainers, a noisy dryer, and latch that doesn’t catch,
a snag in a sweater that you j u s t want to pull...
Worry and fear is like kudzu, climbing, coiling,
and noxious. A case of the flu becomes a pandemic
a peaceful march, a riotous mob.
We live and grown with purpose,
sometimes unclear or unknown,
but it is there.
A simple smile can uplift a gentle soul,
a calm voice, sooth a child fears,
a warm hand comfort an aging animal.
During this time of victory gardens
and sourdough starts, let us feed our purpose;
advocate for others, be strong when you can,
and keep pulling the weeds.
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