invisible yet possibly deadly it empties streets makes us quarantine cities regions nations hits us unprepared reminds us that pandemics can also happen in our time
a few days ago I walked downtown a strange quietness filled the air made me react to noises and sounds I had not even noticed when streets were full with people and cars
even the wail of distant ambulance sirens sounded louder and more ominous
I only saw occasional joggers a few women airing their pet dogs more bicycled food deliveries than usual
they hardly acknowledged my existence glances did not meet my friendly nods were rarely returned
we have all become solitary strangers keeping their safe distance