Sheltered in Place
My world is she, they, and he
She is bold, a quick wit, smart but
would rather not flaunt it. Plays
games, both indoor and outdoor. Prefers
making aces and side outs to
being stuck inside. Wants to feel
the wind in her hair and let
laughter float away on a
breeze. She is soft, with a gentle
heart. I see myself in
her strength.
They are quiet, reserved, wearing
their heart on their sleeve.
About to come of age. Excited for their first
(or not) drink. Art fills their world, as does
laughter. I melt in their eyes so
big and green. They wish they were back
on campus, with friends. They find
comfort in plants, tarot cards, and
watercolors. He is the love
of my life, a father full of unconditional
love. My husband, my lover, my friend. He makes
the entire room giggle, can make
fear go away with a hug or
a soft kiss. He is perfection, to
all of us. A man both gentle and
brave. Served our country, teaches, and
kicks about a ball. He has a surfer’s
soul and arms that make
me feel safe at home.
Contracts Covid-19
Issue 9 & Issue 10
The Alien Buddha
Issue 10
Masks
Plague lingers where we
breathe, waiting to take
hold of your lungs
spread like the heat
of an oven on a cold
day — stealing breath.
Outside the warm sun begs
to kiss skin.
I don a mask before
opening my front door, drive
with the windows – up.
I see people who — don’t.
I wonder if they
do not have one.
If they know risks or
deny science. And when they
touch their cheek, nose or…I
look away.
No one wants
to look
death
in the face.