untangling the web
KNOTS, TWISTS AND FAITH IN GOD
One year on
It was a year like no other we’d experienced,
A year of global shut down, a time to be still,
A pause in our normal frenetic rhythms of life,
When a silent, faceless enemy stalked our streets.
There was confusion, chaos, uncertainty and conspiracy theories,
as we were forced to find new ways of being community,
being a friend, being family, being there,
without actually meeting, touching, physically holding hands.
No one was left untouched.
There were cancelled appointments, holidays on hold and face masks,
keeping distance, sorting cupboards, and sloppy clothes,
hand sanitiser, grown-out hair styles and more takeaways.
But we heard the birds sing louder,
And saw nature’s colours bolder.
We invented smiles and songs and ways to beat the struggles.
One year on.
What have we learnt in this winter of our souls?
When we emerge this chrysalis, will we fly?
Or have we exchanged one shadow for another?
One striving for another – to fill our days with fripperies.
The pause is to take stock.
The quiet, small voice still speaks:
What will be different, and what will stay the same?
Written for the UK National Day of Reflection - one year on from the beginning of lockdown due to the Covid pandemic, 23 March 2021.