Quarantine Prayer

By Monterey Bay Poet Jennifer Lagier

Deer and raccoons reclaim sidewalks and streets

while quarantined humans shelter in place.

Given an existential time out,

I meditate on acts of community kindness:

neighbors who deliver groceries and prescriptions

to vulnerable housebound.

Each day offers more blessings:

health, cherished garden, hummingbird angels.

I deadhead lilies, plant cosmos seedlings,

strip away stinging nettles.

Grateful for husband and hounds,

well-stocked pantry and freezer,

I bake fragrant artisan bread,

simmer bolognese sauce, pour over pasta.

Sustaining goddess of hearth and home,

may your protective powers surround us.