"Just the other day"

What was the rubbing of elbows?
After all we had no say in the matter just a week ago.
On the bus, on the train, even when we didn't know
We knocked elbows with strangers as we went with the flow.

A kiss among friends, a handshake at peace time
A greeting of love not just some customary sign
Soon it will all be a memory of a more liberating time
When it was ok to dance in the streets and with friends you could dine.

Some kissed their dogs while touching the roses
And figured hands were clean even after some unwittingly picked their noses.
But now the voices of not just the teachers echo
To remind us to wash those hands from palms to elbows.

Antibacterial soap and water, rubbing alcohol and the endangered sanitizer,
The weapons against this undiscriminating virus called Corona.
One day, we will look back on those things we took for granted
Like touching our faces and that of those we wanted.

We will treasure the memories of those sleepovers and Sunday raves
When the confinement of our homes threaten to breed a new brand of craze.
The services we found every excuse not to attend
Will be part of the list of "when again, oh when?"

So we live in a world where technology now rules
With virtual hugs, dinners and online schools.
Keep the windows open and the back gates locked
Cancel all socials and keep the soap dishes well stocked
As we each guard our doors in the hope that one day Corona won't knock.

By Vda