I often look back over my works in progress (WIPs) to see what I'd like to work on next or just to read what I've written. I came across a poem I wrote in 2001 (after 9/11) and I was led to modify it for 2020.

While we are still, let’s not fret about the things we can’t do, the things we cannot buy, or the places we cannot go. Pause is not permanent, by definition it is a temporary stop. This too shall pass.

After you read the poem, take a moment to reflect on some things that you have now, things that you're doing, relationships you've built, or things you've learned that you appreciate.

We Are Still

The world still revolves

Yet we stand still

|| Paused || 

Forever different

Patience is tested

Confusion in masses

Yet it is all clear

Time to slow down

Time to reflect

Time to (sigh)

|| Pause ||

The future — hazy 

Like a mirage

We inch toward it

An oasis in this desert of chaos

Eager to breathe again

And escape from our shelters

 Into a warm embrace

Kiss a friendly face

Hungry to sit around a table

To break bread

With our loved ones

Together again 

Time to (smile)

|| Pause ||

And give thanks and praise

For each other, and 

Those we miss

Until then

Revel in the bird’s songs 

The rustle of leaves 

The rhythm of the rainfall

Life is not over

The world still revolves