Dear COVID-19,
You pulled the rug from under my feet and sent me tumbling
From London to Singapore in a matter of days – No thank you
However, it was also you that brought me back home
In dire times, for safety and security – Thank you
You spread your wings around the world with liberty
Yet you encaged us within four walls – No thank you
However, it was also you that made us appreciate home
Which we otherwise would have taken for granted – Thank you
You worked yourself silently to devastating effect
From schools to nursing homes to our workers’ dormitories – No thank you
However, you have given new perspectives on our front-liners
And to me a purpose to have returned to serve – Thank you
You hit us where it hurts most
Causing our places of worship to be closed – No thank you
However, it was only because of you that we made an effort
To convert our homes into halls of prayer – Thank you
You kept me away from my parents
And from friends near and dear – No thank you
However, it was also you that made me appreciate
My wife and kids a whole new level more – Thank you
Despite all the new insights and perspectives you have brought
Despite all the “thank yous” that I owe you
I certainly wish for you not to stay but to go
And I promise you I will never forget you and your teachings throughout