Not that the beginning of the year follows a pattern

Even when we for new beginnings yearn

But this year has started on notes so grim

Statistics revealing hospitals full to the brim

Human suffering raging at levels unprecedented

In so many ways has COVID upended

The fabric of normal lives worldwide–

As we wait for something (?vaccination) to turn the tide

The usual New Year resolutions this January first we see few

We know now the best laid plans can go askew

Normally with high hopes we start each year

But in 2021 one thing seems clear

Our expectations are minimal to none, we start

The year from rock bottom- so in my heart

I believe that things can only get better now

I pray for salvation, and with some trepidation allow

Hope to enter my mind and dispel fear

There is nothing else I want from life this year…