What a whirl of wonder

Of emotions running the gamut

From fear to sadness

From tears to hugs

Restricted of course

To those you live with

Not all those you love.

Strength comes from above.

When you feel things tug on your heart

Take another dart,

From the media

From your friends

Will it ever end?

Everyone’s got an opinion

Their own set of rules.

Updates every day

We’re back in school.

Whom do I follow?

What is safe?

Whoever thought

A hug could put your life at risk?

And others would criticize tisk tisk.

Any get togethers are all about numbers and environment.

Outside? Inside? What shall it be?

And for goodness sake

Put a mask on please!

Corona is getting annoying she said.

And I’m not talking about the beer.

But the bars I fear.

Can’t have a visit inside

Want to run and hide

From the people, places and things

That used to bring

So much happiness.

Starving for a hug

Quality time that feels Right.

The summer brought warm hikes, six feet apart.

The winter brought cold chairs when eyes would smart.

Let’s exchange presents, though there’s a chill.

When warm and cozy is what we still

Are hungering for.

Sarah Lombardo lives in Stonington and has made the best of the pandemic. She said has enjoyed brightening her clients’ days on the phone from the comfort of her home and winning a grant for tablets so her clients can feel more connected to each other during virtual groups.

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