Today, Dear Reader, I’m in a bit of a funk.
A special friend’s mother passed away, and I’ve no spunk.
I’d be lying if I told you the news didn’t make me extremely sad,
  but my friend encouraged me, as she recalled the wonderful life Mother had.

Mom thrived in the spotlight, entertained proudly, and lived long.
She had raised a fine family and was still going strong.
Like many of our parents, she was a pillar of the community.
What makes it worse now is that we can’t mourn in unity.

After quarantine, there will be celebrations to honor stricken mothers.
We look forward to consoling in person, being able to hug one another.
My friend said these last two weeks have been a surreal dream;
  true enough, we are all processing things stranger than they seem.

Our vacation in February seems oh so long ago.
For way too many now, it’s a tough row to hoe.
I have hope that tomorrow will start off on a happier note,
  but I’m very sad now and feel an unfamiliar lump in the throat.