At the six month mark of forced isolation. 
Social distancing and some desolation.
Something that seemed like a short term necessity.
Ballooned into a global calamity.

This new reality has made me ponder.
Have forced distances, made us fonder?
What do I miss and want most?
Some companionship, a family visit, maybe a jaunt.

Do I want the old times back?
Not in its entirety.
Not reckless living and selfish gaiety.
But, to be a part of a thinking society.

Not a life devoted to oneupmanship.
But one of cherished companionship.
Life of thoughtful consumption.
Not blind, unending material possession.

I want to embrace this new reality.
Life on a slow lane above banality.
No more a world of only me and mine
But a life devoted to love for all and divine

No pleasures are for always and no sorrow lasts forever.
It's time for some more patience, reckoning, healing, and a new lever.

(The author is a senior software professional in the Bay Area, California, US. She can be contacted at snarang@yahoo.com)