Because COVID-19 is spreading
Rapidly around the globe,
Much to my dismay, I am
Becoming a major germophobe!

Taking care of groceries now
Takes a good part of the day.
I have to disinfect every
Item before I put it away.

Handles? Yes, I have to clean them--
On cabinets and on chests of drawers.
And all over the house I have to
Disinfect the knobs on the doors.

Remote controls? Telephones?
They all get the treatment, too.
My cell phone's probably crawling with bugs.
I hate to think what's on each shoe.

When going to the store, I say to myself,
"Be careful about all that you touch."
And what about the shopping cart?
This is getting to be too much!

My wallet? My money? My credit cards?
All of them might be harboring germs.
Where can we find a germ-free surface?
Is THAT a contradiction in terms?

Everything now is a major process--
A step-by-step procedure to rid
Everything we touch of the virus.
But really, whom are we trying to kid?

What about airborne droplets
Of COVID-19? Another worry.
If anyone near me sneezes or coughs,
I try to get away in a hurry.

When I come home, do I have to
Change my clothes just in case?
I almost need to tie down my hands
In order to keep from touching my face!

At gas station pumps, at ATMs,
The sneaky virus could also be lurking.
Should I wear a mask in public?
Many feel that masks are working.

No handshakes, kisses, or hugs, for I
Must keep a safe distance from all.
My hand sanitizer should have
A large amount of alcohol.

Alcohol? Hmmm. If it
Can **** the virus, could I be
Safe if I drink daily martinis?
Would that keep me virus-free?

Wishful thinking, I guess. I'll have to
Be mindful of every move that I make.
I'd MUCH rather be safe than sorry;
It's good to be cautious for everyone's sake.

-by Bob B (4-1-20)