A rhyme for the times

‘Twas the month before Christmas and all through the town 
People wore masks that covered their frown.
The frown had begun way back in the spring 
When a global pandemic had changed everything.
 
They called it Corona but, unlike the beer,
It didn’t bring good times, it didn’t bring cheer.
Infectious and deadly this virus spread fast,
Like a wildfire that starts when fuelled by gas.
 
All aircraft were grounded and travel was banned,
While borders were closed across air, sea and land.
As the world entered lockdown to flatten the curve
Economies stumbled and folks lost their nerve.
 
From March to July, we rode the first wave, 
And people stayed home as they tried to behave.
When summer emerged, the lockdown was lifted
But away from their caution so many folks drifted.
 
And now it’s December and cases are spiking.
Wave Two has arrived,  much to our disliking. 
The folk on the frontline like doctors and nurses 
Are trying to save people from riding in hearses.
 
This virus is awful,  this COVID-19,
And there’s some way to go till we get the vaccine.
It’s true that this year has had sadness a-plenty. 
We’ll never forget it, the year 2020.
 
So, now it is time for the holiday season
But oh, why be merry? Is there even one reason
To decorate my house and put up the tree
When no one will see it,  nobody but me?
 
But outside my window the snow gently falls 
And I think to myself, come on, let’s deck the halls!
So, I gather the ribbon, the garlands and bows.
As I play those old carols, my happiness grows.
 
True Christmas ain’t cancelled,  and neither is hope:
If we lean on each other, I know we can cope.
Wherever you are now, I wish you good cheer,
Warmth, safety and peace,   
 
(and a better New Year!)

By an anonymous writer, sent in by Jane Gloster.