Bourton & District

Poem No.3

Coronarata

GO PLACIDLY amid the new rhythm of life, and remember when you longed for peace and silence. As far as possible, without surrender, wait your turn for on-line delivery.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly on Facetime as the link is dodgy; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant who believe stupidity gives immunity.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they maybe infected, come to think of it avoid all persons. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be somebody who got the last tinned tomatoes, and somebody you beat to the last pack of pasta.

Enjoy your achievements (spaghetti bolognaise – minus the tomato sauce) as well as your plans (plans? What were they?). Keep interested in your own career, however humble; and just hope that you can return to it when this is over.

Exercise caution in your on-line browsing, for the world is full of fake news. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many key workers strive to look after us, and everywhere the NHS is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not meet those outside your household. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all infection and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of this year, gracefully surrendering the things you once took for granted.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in this misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of self isolation and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline (hand washing and social distancing), be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe will, one day, unfold again as it should. Therefore be at peace with your own beliefs. And whatever your labours and aspirations, in this strange confused new life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sadness’s, uncertainties and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Susan Dodd