Pandemic Reflections

Birdsong on evening breezes, through warm sunlight reflecting off sparkling waters. Walkers, runners, bikers, desperate for fresh air, open air, air that is clean, safe, free air. Noses glued to phones, runners glide off course, then back again. Dog pants on leash, runner to keep pace, barely. Ducks skim atop shimmering waters, flapping feverishly, gaining no altitude. Pleasant, friendly speech between isolation buddies walking past, absorbing the evening. Time stands, pauses, reflects, and remains still for a moment. A global pandemic moment with an almost clear guarantee no one will ask to share this bench, or walk along. Gratitude for solitude and contentment in a crowd. A Spring evening at the park, exactly like years gone by, with only one thing new, no need to watch for advancing strangers. All are content and feel no guilt as they walk on by. Assurance. Private, peaceful, pandemic memories.