I will never get used to this

I will never get used to this dark world

A mask that hides my smile

They say not to hug my grandma

That won't feel normal after awhile 

I will always want to extend my hand 

Upon meeting a new friend

A custom I have always know 

Hard to imagine it would end

I will never get used to this 

Being afraid to hug and kiss my niece

A nearby cough or sneeze 

It's enough to steal my peace 

I recall this crowded room of loved ones 

We used to mingle shoulder to shoulder 

No one is here, they're far away 

And the world feels a little colder

I will never get used to this 

Far away travel, I do not even browse

Most planes are grounded, people locked inside

Many afraid to leave their house

But I refuse to call this my new normal

Handshakes, hugs, and kisses- I will always miss

I refuse to say this is life now

I'll never get used to this

But I'll do what they say 

A masked face, so I smile with my eyes

I won't hug my grandma

But I'll call her often, a willing compromise

I won't extend my hand to shake 

But I will bow in style 

And I'll thank the frontline workers

Gratitude will get us through this trial 

No hugs and kissed for my niece 

But I'll send her little things in the mail 

I will keep a distance, but I believe 

Love will always prevail

And one day we will remove the masks

And our smiles will shine bright

I will never get used to this 

Because I'll keep searching for the light

Quatinine 2020