Despite the pandemic which plagues us now,

and has done so for half a year;

we carry on as best we can

with hope and faith despite our fear.

Our state officials have done their best,

led by a man named Lamont,

who continues to keep us informed

with as many press conferences as we want.

To help each other every day,

citizens have done their part,

so all of us will have a chance

to survive and not lose heart.

From health care pros to grocery clerks,

and first responders to those in need;

all have gone beyond the call of duty

not only in word but also in deed.

The poor, the elderly, and minority groups

have suffered more than their fair share,

yet they have not yet lost their faith

because of those who’ve shown they care.

I hope we’ve learned the lesson well:

to appreciate what once we had,

so that when we get back what we’ve lost,

we will be grateful, not just glad.

Jim Izzo lives in Mystic with his wife Joanne and their adopted kitty Grace. The retired teachers, after living in the South since 2002, moved back to their native Connecticut in 2019. They are happy to be home, and they look forward to enjoying all that one of America’s best and safest states has to offer.

The Times is offering readers a chance to share their poetry amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. To contribute, email times@theday.com.