What the awoke to the next day was something they never dreamed they would witness in their lifetimes.  It was as if all the wars and injustices of past societies were culminating, ruminating and usurping the people of the land.  They no longer felt useful in a place cut off from others.  Even little steps seemed insurmountable.

The use of electronic connecting was somewhat helpful, but the physical touch was lacking.  People missed shaking hands, hugging or any physical contact.  Six feet apart was not close enough to reach out.  The skin on human hands was drying out and became like scales, shrouding the empty casements.  Fingers became longer and stronger as electronic devices were the only way to communicate.

As masks were required in all public places, people felt held back again.  Those who had difficulty breathing were restricted from going anywhere once more.  Those who chose not to wear masks were blackballed and even discriminated against.  Those who ventured out and wore the face coverings, felt somewhat superior because they were helping others by their actions – or were they?

It became another matter of offending others – a phrase that had slowly crept into the society for the past fifty or so years.  As polite people who didn’t want to make waves, the general population backed off when told they were offended by something or someone.  Taking offense grew to great heights.  One could rightly be offended if he was guilty of a crime and felt he was being bullied.  Those who were given the job of protecting the people were slurred and abused.  Suddenly the world seemed to be turned upside down.  How could one little virus do that?

It wasn’t just Covid19.  It was a much more deadly virus.  It was one that sapped the good out of people and made them evil. It felt the only safety they could count on was inside the four walls of their dwellings.   It created fear, darkness, hatred and became one of the greatest diseases known to mankind.

The animals who were adapting to empty streets, took to their woodlands again.  As soon as people inhabited the land, they no longer felt safe.  Those taking the chances filled the streets to protest.  Old wounds were resurfacing and a new song was being sung.  The messages were the same as they once were.

Many prayed for an end to the world.  Some believed that God was giving the signs for those times.  More isolation occurred.  Like sheep, many followed the herd.