What We Take With Us

By:

Laura

Gilbert

I've been living with a long-term health condition for 14 years, which often leaves me housebound for long periods of time. I'm therefore no stranger to being stuck at home. Nonetheless, I found the pandemic and the lockdowns very difficult, not least because I didn't see my mum for over a year. She lives in Yorkshire, so we were well and truly separated. For the good of my mental health, I made myself focus on the small, positive things. I began to think, wouldn't it be good if we could all take some of those positive things with us as we start to get back to normality - and have a better, kinder new normality. That was the inspiration for my poem. Thanks for reading it.

As we start to move on from this strangest of years
We grieve those we’ve lost and keep their memory alive
Whilst looking ahead, beyond any fears
To a better new normal in which all can thrive

We’ve a chance for reflection, to look back and wonder
About things once taken for granted but recently missed
Personal learnings that gave us pause to ponder
To help us remember, why not make a list?

I’ll start with my list, though please make your own
Mine’s quite straightforward, perhaps commonplace
Like taking a moment away from my phone
To enjoy the birds, bees and flowers in any green space

I will give some thought to the things that I buy
Whilst I can travel to shops, I plan to be vocal
About the makers and sellers and cafés nearby
As the world opens up, we can still keep it local

Meeting loved ones in person, not just on a screen
Is a pleasure when we’ve been parted by miles
Now together again after so long unseen
I’ll make sure to treasure their hugs and their smiles

The paper rainbows in windows have gradually faded
Though it’s important to remember why they were there
As we get back to normal, I’ll try not to be jaded
But give back and say thanks, to show I still care

That’s my list for now, it may become longer
With other ideas I decide to append
To sum up, I’d say together we’re stronger
If we treat ourselves and others as we would a friend

We can all play our part for a brighter tomorrow
By choosing what we take with us and what stays behind
Looking forward with hope will help heal our sorrow
Let’s build a future that’s happy, healthy and kind

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