Gift of Time

No running, sauntering or shuffling feet

On empty streets lined

With dark store fronts,

Chairs stacked away in eateries.

Cherish the gift of time even in isolation,

For nothing is lost as long as we remember

The delight of gift bridges us over turbulent waters.

Be wise not to squander the gift

And become the blessed bejeweled

With big yellow hibiscus flowers

Behind ears in rainy March days

Becoming the delight of the day.

Light shines on time

Melts changing the shape

And empty streets want pitter-patter of feet.

The gift of time

Patience with honor

For you and me.

        2020

The Year of Rat