We have been asked

no, told

to isolate

with nothing to do but

to confront ourselves.

 

So used to turning outwards

because it is our nature

to Connect

to Create

to Build

to Move

 

But we forget

it is also our nature

to Reflect

to Contemplate

to Grow

to Care

 

The vagary of the situation

only realized in the

day after day

of it all.

 

For the minutes

are much the same,

with all the love lines

and fault lines

magnified.

In who we care about.

And who is alone.

And who has access to

green spaces

courtyards

big yards

second homes

savings

safety nets

sick days

social connections

housing

healthcare

food

internet

toilet paper

transportation

masks

medication

 

This moment

as an

unwanted

but necessary

gift.

The chance to reckon with

our shame.

 

The gift of a catalyst

that can propel us

onward

or underground.

 

If we’re willing

to sit with ourselves

and reflect on

who deserves what

and why.

 

The perils

of capitalism

with no conscience.