I’ve been robbed! Stop thief, stop!

Something absconded with my freedom!

Covid is the thief, the pandemic is the hijacker!

I’ve been robbed! Stop thief, stop!

Here’s the police report:

Missing:

My energy and excitement.

My assurance and peace.

My trust and security.

I want them back.

I’ve been robbed! Stop thief, stop!

Instead I’m left with

Uncertainty, weariness, suspicion.

I look at you differently now.

Are you a carrier, careless, or a killer?

You’re my neighbor, friend, my family.

I’ve been robbed! Stop thief, stop!

Perseverance, carefulness, and hope prevail.

I’m still upset, even angry.

We’ve all been robbed!

Stop thief, stop!

Terry LaPorta

East Lyme

Poetry in a Pandemic offers local readers a chance to share their poetry written during or related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. To contribute, email times@theday.com.