Pandemic Holiday Blues (And Reds) —Kathleen Finnegan, November 2020 In this year of the Pandemic With so many out of work We are fighting over face masks But our leaders only shirk While the Christmas music started Right around November first We are hopeful and yet fearful That we haven’t seen the worst So we’ll gather up our closest And remember those afar As we lift a cup of cheer to those Who aren’t here any more And with thanks we’ll eat whatever Food is put upon our plate As we say a quiet prayer for those Whom we consider “late” We will not let this pandemic Kill the joy and love we feel As we gather oh so virtually This year’s Christmas is surreal.I wrote this in November 2020, as we approached the holidays and had decided that it was not prudent to travel in order to gather as a family. With the computer in the kitchen and everyone online doing the usual holiday tasks, it was much more enjoyable than anticipated, and we were able to include other families across the globe, a true bonus. I am posting it now as a belated thanks to ZOOM for extending the session times for the holidays in the free versions. They didn’t have to do that, but it was much appreciated.It certainly made a difference for us.