A silent intruder,

Unseen yet all-consuming,

A chaos unleashed upon the world,

Shattering lives, dreams, and plans.

My semiformal, My red sparkly dress, 

Fading away in my closet.

Invisible enemy, relentless and rapid,

It spreads its web of fear and pain,

Infecting hearts, minds, and bodies,

Leaving behind a trail of devastation.

Lockdowns imposed, cities in hush,

Empty streets echo with loneliness,

Masks become the new face of humanity,

A shield against the unknown, the invisible.

My mask making a cloud upon my glasses, 

Haven't seen a smile in months.

Lovers kept apart, families separated,

My dad 20 miles away,

Both of us locked away from the world.

Heartbroken, not being able to see him.

Virtual connections replacing warm hugs,

Weddings postponed, celebrations muted,

Life's grand tapestry unraveling.

Yet surrounded by the darkness, a flicker of hope,

Frontline heroes rise, battling the storm,

Nurses, doctors, essential workers,

Bravely fighting for a brighter tomorrow.

Communities unite, neighbors lend a hand,

My teachers stepping up to distribute food,

To families who need those school lunches.

Acts of kindness bloom amongst the chaos,

Strangers becoming friends, sharing love,

Proving that humanity will endure.

Covid, a chapter in history's book,

A reminder of our weakness and strength,

Through flexibility and compassion,

We shall rise, rebuild, and heal.