We used to skim impatient days
through insistent screens,
scream above the din
to be heard, to be seen
running red-eyed seekers,
ritually sacrificing sleep,
needing to believe
our better selves stood
just ahead, salvation
waiting only for time to stop.
Today we shed viral fears
endemic to our nation,
needing to believe
our better selves stand
just ahead, salvation
waiting only for time to start.
Polking Classroom 