Ilene Bauer Poet Rhyme

To Catch a Cough

When I was young, a coughing child
Who followed Mom’s commands
Would quickly cover up his mouth
With both his little hands.

Of course, he likely spread his germs
To all that he would touch
But years would pass and protocol
Would not change very much.

Today, however, that’s taboo.
You’ll get a nasty look
If coughs or sneezes aren’t caught
In your arm’s closest crook.

I have to thus remind myself,
(The older way’s ingrained)
But lately in my armpit
My contagion has remained.

I wonder why it took so long
To add up two and two
And decide a cough in hand contains
Some germs within that goo.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Arthur Vaso January 17, 2015 at 9:47 PM Funny, thanks for the smiles and I seem too be able to catch a cough for me and anyone else who wants one!

Robert Johnson January 17, 2015 at 7:25 PM I shiver at the thought of what I might have caught. Every handle, knob and lever. It has really become a futile endeavor. We get our shots and try to stay warm. But getting sick is quite the norm. I can't remember a year gone by that I didn't wake one morning wishing I could die. Wishing you health ilene. Peace. :)

Jan Allison January 17, 2015 at 6:42 PM wise words in this humourous write ever:-) Hugs Jan xx

Connie Marcum Wong January 17, 2015 at 6:18 PM Your poem made me think about doing just what you describe. I carry a hanky to sneeze in if I do have to venture out with a cold and I squirt my cart down with germ killer before passing it on to others. I wish everyone would do that! I think your poem will help with that! I enjoyed it Ilene. My little granddaughter is using all my Kleenex with her cold. When they learn young they never forget.