Only now,
After months of ceaseless isolation,
Only now,
When we can faintly glimpse
A remedy on the horizon.
Only now,
Do I allow myself to
Envision an end to this endless pandemic.
Only now, can I begin to permit myself
To imagine greeting old friends
With a loving embrace.
Oh, the pure physicality of it!
Skin touching skin,
Cheek brushing cheek.
I know that first hug
Will occasion tears –
Tears that have, until now,
Been fiercely contained
By a dam we call fear.
Even now.
Even now,
Those same tears spill down my cheeks,
Anticipating that sacred day.
David Hanig 