The Push and Pull of a Pandemic

Summary

The poem "The Push and Pull of a Pandemic" reflects on the emotional toll of the pandemic, with its mix of hope and despair, and the impact of global suffering on personal peace of mind.

Abstract

The poem captures the emotional dichotomy experienced during the pandemic, with moments of optimism overshadowed by continuous tragedy and fear. It speaks to the anxiety of constant bad news, the global disparity in vaccine distribution, and the guilt associated with personal hope in the face of widespread suffering. The author expresses a longing for a safe future, juxtaposing the improving situation in the U.S. with the ongoing pain elsewhere. The poem concludes with the author's reliance on prayer to navigate the daily ebb and flow of hope and sadness.

Opinions

The author feels a mix of hope from rising vaccine rates and guilt due to the ongoing suffering in other countries.
There is a persistent fear about the future, including concerns about raising children in a world still recovering from the pandemic.
Despite some positive developments, the author remains apprehensive, aware that improvements can be overshadowed by potential setbacks.
The poem conveys a sense of helplessness and the need for spiritual solace amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic's duration and impact.

A poem

For every little win Another tragedy occurs I’m scared to turn on the news at night To see what else has happened in the world

More pandemic deaths Arising every day Less and less in the U.S. But the world is hurting anyway

When will it end? Not in my lifetime, I’m afraid Will there be a safe place To raise my future kids In the next decade?

I still worry all the time Even when the outlook’s good If the sun comes out there still the clouds That will bring darkness when they could

The vaccine rates are rising Which makes me hopeful for what will come But I also feel so guilty When other countries still succumb

The push and pull Of sadness and hope Are with me every day The only thing that helps me through Is to close my eyes and pray