A Tiny Speck

Close your eyes
and make legs wander.  
See time pass; 
then let mind ponder.

Each effect
has its own cause.
We're not immune
to nature's laws. 

Moments ahead
or seconds behind—
clearly seen
or totally blind. 

A tiny speck
denies our breath;
then tips the balance
towards life or death.

For Coronavirus COVID-19 Poetry Contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Sharp Avatar
April 22, 2020 at 8:14 AM
Great write, Mark, incisive and very well expressed.
Warrior Avatar
April 8, 2020 at 5:21 AM
Excellent entry my friend...for such a tiny speck that can wreak havoc...stay safe...the Wingster :o)
Rodrigues Avatar
April 2, 2020 at 10:52 PM
Great! Especially last verse!
Peterson Avatar
April 2, 2020 at 11:51 PM
Thank you so much, Kim. Nice comment for me.
Dietrich Avatar
March 28, 2020 at 3:12 PM
Yessss. now THIS is a great poem on the theme, Mark!!! I like how you pondered it so thoughfully and succinctly. By the way, can you do me a favor and tell me if I should enter my most recent poem on the virus (Hard Time for a Crook) or the other one you liked so much of mine? I just can't seem to be profound on this topic.
Peterson Avatar
March 28, 2020 at 8:15 PM
There are 250 entries to this contest, so I guess high placement would be miraculous. There are so many excellent poets here. Thanks for your kind remarks of acknowledgment for the very things I was trying to achieve. This is one of those that wrote itself; the words just flowed into my mind. I hope you will give the contest a try.
Horsman Avatar
March 15, 2020 at 12:45 AM
I wonder if this is about the virus?,,excellent poetry standing alone. great poem, love it...
Peterson Avatar
March 15, 2020 at 6:56 PM
Thank you, Harry. I have noted now that it is for the contest. Your remarks are appreciated and give me hope.
Faulkner Avatar
March 14, 2020 at 2:54 PM
So profoundly insightful, Mark, especially like the line 'clearly seen/or totally blind' - life can be dangerous but also beautiful-
Peterson Avatar
March 15, 2020 at 6:57 PM
Michelle, I can always count on you for thoughtful remarks. So much appreciated and timely.
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