Composing the urban community are many types of people, all rising to start their repetitive, and unprecedented days.

Ten pigeons argue over an abandoned snack in the quiet park,

their squawks are heard from

Nine different houses as small lights are turned on with anger,

ruining the darkness in their shelters.

Eight women wake themselves,

and head to their children’s rooms after making breakfast and completing all tasks alone.

Seven lonely souls, in different parts of the city,

slowly alert, wondering which area is the safest to pray for assistance.

Six tardy animals feast

on scraps from the trash, before being chased by the powerful broom.

Five young sisters were up early, got their hair brushed,

and escape chaotic homes for a game of Double Dutch on chalk landscapes.

Four were already conscious,

now reluctantly letting swollen eyes rest after a twelve-hour essential nightshift. A

Third trimester mother cries

from sharp pains, bringing fear in the car ride to the crowded, potentially contaminated hospital.

Two partners throw petty insults at each other,

after waking up resentful to the lack of change.

One devout follower prays early in the morning,

for those without the luxury of awakening in a safe home during the pandemic.

by Josie, Grade 11