*An Open Letter to COVID-19*

Dear Corona,
“The invisible enemy” as our martyr of a President refers to you.
In the span of six weeks, you have changed the world.
You have altered daily routines, changed relationships, cancelled big plans and celebration of milestones.
You took graduation from me.
My cap and gown sits in the corner by the door, mocking me.
I haven’t even opened the box because the idea of a virtual graduation repulses me to no end.
I won’t wear it.
I haven’t opened the box because it’s recommended I wipe it down with disinfectant and I never thought I’d have to do that.
It’s because of you, virus.

You have isolated so many from their families and ended lives unexpectedly.
I was supposed to see my grandmother after 3 years of being apart.
It’s not safe for her to travel right now
because of you.
Instead, I talk to her on the phone and we sadly say “if only...”

People on the frontlines are breaking their backs to fight you and avoid you at all costs to serve people.
But you won’t give up.
You latch on, infect, destroy.
That’s all you know.

That’s the difference between you and me.
I know how to love, to hope, and dream.
And so do the billions of people that are united to defeat you.

There isn’t a vaccine yet to kill you off.
But that difference alone - that beating human heart and spirit,
those promises to think better, do better, and be better
to show up and be there for the ones you love
Will put an end to your madness.

And things will change again,
For the better.