11/07/2020
PLEASE HOLD THROUGH THE SILENCE
“Please hold through the silence.”
(Repeating automated voice when I paid my bill by phone)
Please hold through the silence.
Presidential Election Day 2020
Hammering of boards complete now.
Against fragile glass.
Fragile hope.
Please hold through the silence.
Of the Dead.
Louder than all the lambs' screams.
And the Dying.
Who will never say goodbye.
Please hold through the silence.
Of your Quarantine.
Your Outrage.
Your Desire for peace, love, trust, safety.
Your Need for Normal to return.
Please hold through the silence.
As your heart continues to beat.
While stew simmers on the stove.
While you hold through the silence
Waiting for your wish
To come true.
-Marlan Warren, Los Angeles, November 3, 2020