Phase One

We’ve just begun; we’re in phase one. With baby steps we’re starting, Although we must remember that The danger’s not departing. So work resumes, but still the Zooms Will substitute for meetings As masks and six-feet distances Will rule in-person greetings. No eating out for there is doubt That restaurants are ready And customers won’t risk their health For chef-prepared spaghetti. Our mom & pops and barber shops Are not phase one included And schools, museums, shows and malls Are equally excluded. One thing that’s gone I counted on Is 7 p.m. clapping, A lovely come-together time I wasn’t up for scrapping. It energized and symbolized The spirit of the city So even though we’re moving on, To lose that is a pity.