A POEM A DAY - ORANGE BLOSSOM


Day 1 of our imposed isolation in Spain, although in reality we have been self isolating and manically bleaching now for over a week. I am one of the at risk groups and have been aware since cases in Italy started to rise of the risks to my own health and my families. It was a strange feeling yesterday, empty streets, bars shut, supermarkets rammed with desperate shoppers who had left it late to shop. In the afternoon I arrived back from my last country walk to hear the Town Hall giving instructions by 'bando' the megaphone Town Crier system still used in our village. The reality of the situation and my gratitude to our new young Councillors bearing such a sombre responsibility struck me and I stood to listen with tears in my eyes. 


The isolation is already strange, we are either laughing or crying, panicking or maintaining a strange calm. I am trying to keep calm, worry does not help and I need to support my children and their families. My grandson can not understand why nana is not round to play or why he is stuck indoors. I am saddened by not being able to be with him or my newborn grandson. 


Despite this I keep reminding myself that these drastic measures are to keep us safe and I am grateful that this may help me and all other vulnerable groups stay well. 

© 2020 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved. 

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