so we’ve been told.
They inspire us to be
better versions of ourselves.
But I’m not seeing
a better version of humanity
when adult-sized toddlers
bray about their freedom
to make others ill
so they can play golf,
and get their hair done.
They,
and all those who care more
about feeding their delusions
of stability and comfort,
are the ones
who created the desperate need
for heroic measures.
Even though people are so willing
to play out the role of villain,
perhaps hero isn’t the right word
for those who find themselves on the front lines.
But it may be the best word
we can use,
because sacrificial tribute
on the altar of ego
is just too honest.
 |
| More Covid 19 related street at images can be found at Atlas Obscura. |
Song Choice: Abraham's Daughter by Arcade Fire, from The Hunger Games movie
Liner Notes for This Groove: This poem was created for the prompt given at Poets and Storytellers United, Weekly Scribblings #18
You're telling it like it is, Rommy!
ReplyDeleteI am very, very sad that it isn't something I made up for a horror story.
DeleteYou are.
DeleteSad indeed, when our admiration for such heroism is tainted by bitter helplessness in the face of the stupidity and selfishness of many others.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if you are seeing some of the news coming out of the US. We have armed people going to the capital in several states, screaming, quite literally, in people's faces. I have several friends who are essential workers. More than one of them has shied away from the word hero. And one said flat out, she was not a hero, but if you respect anything about what she does, just stay home. In a lot of places essential workers are even given the gear they need to work by their employers.
DeleteThis is a particularly sobering read. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2010025?query=health-policy&page=3&fbclid=IwAR2J9gzhivXeFZpM36P9GDkfQfu4mJzcy4xviQKLXbnSobJHmCXAZ1_kCUI#.XrGRoVuPa9k.facebook
DeleteCan't make the link work, but we have heard enough ti have a general idea of what's going on – though not about the guns, which is horrifying indeed. (But [most] Australians are used to shaking our heads in bewilderment / pity / horror about [many] Americans' love of guns.)
DeleteThere's not a lot of sanity here either. Restrictions on retail were eased in some cities, for Mother's Day. Crowds flocked to stores, most of them completely ignoring social distancing requirements! What part of 'deadly', 'infectious' or 'rapid spread' do they not understand?
Straight-talking, Rommy, and so true. We haven’t seen quite so many adult-sized toddlers braying about their freedom, but then our small island doesn’t have quite so many people on it. But we know they exist here too, mainly in towns and cities. People in our village, for example, generally stick to the new rules and we don’t see or hear them – a good thing under the circumstances.
ReplyDeleteIt is so ugly here in parts of the United States. Between the idiots protesting so they can make other people go back to work to serve them and the idiots who can't be bothered to wear a mask, I'm afraid we have a long way to go before any progress can be made.
DeleteIt is sad to see such a varied response to the Covid crisis across the world. Each country has taken a course that in many cases that has been driven by political leaders rather that experts resulting in varying priorities that often ignore the need to keep its citizen as safe as possible when infection starts rather than worry about the economy. Greed never learns anything wise!
ReplyDeleteYou'd think a thing like a pandemic wouldn't get politicized, but here in the US, we do love to innovate. :/
DeleteIt is indeed tragic how some people are openly criticizing and yelling on top of their lungs for freedom when they should be knowing otherwise. Strong and powerful write, Rommy!💘
ReplyDeleteThe propaganda machines are working overtime around here
DeleteI was listening to an NPR news report, which replayed British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson's words, before he became seriously ill with the virus. He was bragging about shaking hands, practically encouraging people to do the same. The level of irresponsibility made me bare my teeth. I so understand the rage that shivers through this poem, Rommy. And the closing is spot on.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I've noticed that most real heroes tend to really dislike the label.
DeleteI've made a similar sort of observation as well. And even if they don't object to the label over much, they'd much rather have the tools to do the job they need to do than any show of praise.
DeleteSo say we all.
DeleteThis poem speaks a universal truth .... great write!
ReplyDeleteThank you Helen
DeleteI think you've nailed it on the head with this one. The whole time I was reading I kept thinking... yes! yes! yes! Particularly at the "adult-sized toddlers" the petulance of the "I want, what I want, when I want it" temperament of those who think everyone else is there to serve them. Ire-raised on behalf of those who are risking their lives.
ReplyDeleteI'd like a hair cut and my roots (OK, my whole head) touched up too. But I'm more than 5 years old mentally and I can wait. I think most intelligent adults get that. And yet, there are these idiots who will likely make this whole thing drag out so much longer than it needs too, placing an even greater burden for those who are giving their all to take care of us.
DeleteAdult-sized toddlers is a good name for those selfish and self-seeking individuals who put the lives of the vulnerable at risk, caring only for their vanities.
ReplyDeleteThe pictures of their selfishness will probably make it into history books--provided humanity can hold out long enough for that.
Deletevery forward. thanks for this well-crafted read!
ReplyDeleteHamokine Poet
Thank you for visiting!
DeleteYes, Tell it! Damn the adult size toddlers who cause so many to sacrifice their lives.
ReplyDeleteIf it was only they who had to deal with the consequences of their actions, I wouldn't even both shedding a tear over them anymore. As they are so happy to remind us, they are choosing their fate. It's the others they will hurt.
DeleteYes Rommy!! In every way yes! Everything you have said, you nailed it!
ReplyDeleteBig Hugs and stay safe!!
You too Stacey. And thank you for the art you create.
Deleteperhaps hero isn’t the right word
ReplyDeletefor those who find themselves on the front lines.
But it may be the best word
we can use - Indeed...that's perfectly put. It is frightening how systems have imploded, not just as expected in the wounded global south but in the global north as well. Will the world order shift, is the question!
I honestly don't know. I'd like to believe there are enough of us who see sense that will survive this thing. But what happens next is anybody's guess.
DeleteAmen Very powerful Love how you say adult-sized toddlers. We have seen them on the news. Here we have some of them but we are quite blessed as our PM Jacinda has worked closely with health experts and we nearly have it under control
ReplyDeleteI am so delighted to hear stories where a leader has managed to live up to their title and keep people safe. May more follow their example, and may the ones that refuse to be swiftly replaced.
DeleteI agree that grumbling at this time is selfish. We have to stay at home for it is the safest and best way to deal with this virus worldwide
ReplyDeleteHappy Sunday
Much💜love
Well, grumbling is human. There are things I miss too. I'm more talking about groups in the U.S. protesting the quarantine in public, without masks or any other protective equipment, demanding things reopen for very frivolous reasons. Many of these protesters are carrying weapons with them too. It's just an ugly, ugly mess.
DeleteWell, when I was in the RAF I was fully trained with guns. My service was a success as I never had to fire in 'anger', whatever that means. I agree with your sentiments wholeheartedly.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your service in the RAF and for using the knowledge you gained wisely. There are too many fools here with no knowledge but plenty of bluster.
DeleteThe best thing about the truth you wrote, the ABSOLUTE truth you wrote, is the word bray. Yes. Is it not true? Isnt it a jackass who brays?
ReplyDeleteSince my son is a respiratory therapist and my daughter a pharmacist your words about heroes resonate with me. Those who are careless and selfish need to walk a mile in their shoes.
ReplyDelete