Cloud Break

(written on Tuesday, first day covid vaccinations administered in the UK)

white candles wax and wane on the

mantle while our room fills with 

perfumed scent of fragrant florals

breathe in jasmine memories of

summer's ache when fragile

confetti petals fell on patio paving

today of all days a sense of

optimism spreads, a much needed  

calm, a balm to soothe frayed edges

a flash of light where there has been

darkness, quiet reflections on the

loss of life and consequent sorrow

faces of elderly folk most at risk

appear on the screen waiting for first

doses of eagerly sought vaccine

eyes sparkle bright with hope that

soon normality will resume that

gloomy days are receding

before long they will venture forth

from home without fear, that loved

ones will be free to draw near

a superb day for science, a date

to remember as persistent blanket

grey starts onset breakaway

Reviews

[Lorry]

And as we wake from gloomy winter slumber, free to venture out once more, hopefully soon, we will know for the first time how the hibernating feel on awakening, as well as the institutionally incarcerated as their parole is granted and they blink at the unnerving brightness and feel a feeling not felt since the first day of school, fear and excitement holding equal sway and our heads exploding at the thought of what to do first.
Methinks the kids are in for one helluva shock though, as they are stopped in their tracks at all the oldies taking over their soft play areas and play parks, making "wheeee!" sounds and smiling like loons.
I CAN'T FLUMPIN' WAIT 😉

[Chris Shaw]

I can't wait either. There will be a revolution. The oldies taking over the streets and bars. Living it up to make up for lost time. A few months to go yet Lorry but I reckon the tide has turned and I am feeling less pessimistic. Thank you for stopping by.

Chris

[Ken Simm.]

A dichotomy of a poem. The first part can be described as fresh.
The second part, my ex wife worked in a hospice,. I would volunteer there. And the medicine cabinet had a drinks cabinet underneath. And why not. Don't know if this has anything to do with your lovely poem but it just came into my head then.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Ken. In a hospice, a drinks cabinet, I would take as an essential. Let your mind travel as you read. That’s what an imagination is for. I for one certainly enjoyed my wine more during COVID and the additional glass each day I treated myself too. Medicinal of course. Have a good day and many thanks for reading this old poem.

Chris

[Neville]

Where did all that time go eh between then and now .. I am subsequently reminded of how quickly time flies by and of our own mortality .. just when we thought it was safe to go back in the water, it bites back again .. no matter the breakthroughs in medicine and science, nature will fight to survive .. such a tiny little virus .. such a massive impact on the entire world .. it's not hard to understand and appreciate what served as the inspiration for these words Chris .. Neville

[Chris Shaw]

When that day arrived it flooded light in many a dark tunnel. I’m sure there will be plenty more nasties on the horizon, unless a nuclear attack comes first. There’s cheerful for you.Thanks Neville. Make sure your Sunday is a cheerful one.

Chris

[VelvetPotato]

Your poetry is always classically beautiful, and relaxing, but also stays relevant with the times. I'm a nurse and got my vaccine. On the day of the first dose, it was a huge celebration in the hospital. Everyone was dressed for Christmas, music was playing, pharmacists were crying. It truly felt like the beginning of the end of a war. It is history. This poem articulates some of the feelings I felt on that day.

[Chris Shaw]

I am so pleased you got your vaccine. Important front line staff are protected. Thank you for the lovely encouraging comments about my poetry. That will keep me motivated.

Chris

[red93]

Very interesting layout Chris with the three line stanzas making strong statements and allowing varied cadences. I particularly like 'jasmine memories of / summer's ache...' The poignant situation of the elderly re the vaccine is very nicely observed.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much for your review. Your visit welcome and much appreciated.

Chriis

[Just Kim]

Wow, This is deep really, I like this thought this was emotional. so nicely written

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Kim and all the best for a happy 2021.

Chris

[Stella Armour]

I think we oldies are dealing with this better than many of the younger ones, maybe as we get older we do learn acceptance and patience which now is standing us in good stead .
Roll on virus free air so that io can explore my new surroundings and make new friends :)

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Stella, I am sure you are right. Maybe we have more patience. Appreciate your visit.

Chris

[Patricia Wedel]

Chris.. it comes to mind that I am fortunate so far to be an “oldie” but virus-free. I do all my grocery shopping and pharmacy visits also. I breathe fresh air in my own yard and I sanitize
religiously... wearing Masks 🎭 at all times in public. I know it can change at any moment, so the vaccine is a blessing. Your poem is as soothing as a Hibiscus Tea. Be well... dear Poet ... gently, Pat

[Chris Shaw]

Let's hope we have a chance of a vaccination very soon Pat. That is a fane changer for sure. Thank you fir your lovely visit.

Chris

[Dave Brown]

This whole thing has been an unbelievable mess
Fingers crossed that we are seeing an effective end to things but just the other day I read something about a new strain and who knows what that might bring about
As I said, fingers crossed

[Chris Shaw]

I agree with you Dave. Fingers are crossed. Hopefully next year will be better. Many thanks for checking in.

Chris

[Gee]

You capture the optimistic mood of a nation well Christine, beautifully in fact :))
Hope you are well and are 2 hours into your chores :)))

[Chris Shaw]

Keeping busy and as safe as possible Gee. . I really believe we are at a turning point. It will take time, but there is light when there was none before. Thank you for your visits. All good wishes to you and yours.

Chris