One

too many

literatures

about the pandemic.

(Yes, I know).

(No, I’m not sorry.)

What seems

like a black hole

we cannot

escape

we cannot

understand

we cannot

accept.

Toilet paper frenzy

turned

mask-wearing

apocalypse.

World turned

upside down

but —

behind the scenes

and behind the screens

we emerged.

“Virtual platform”

“Zoom background”

“Screen share”

“Gamification”

…soon, “hybrid.”

A complete shift

in our world,

in our industry,

though we stand

not alone,

has forced

upon us

a complete shift

in our language.

A new virus

has erupted.

A new language

has germinated.

The unknown –

the only

common ground.

We are learning.

We are experimenting.

We are taking the occasional step back

Though

two steps

forward.

We have adjusted.

We have adapted.

We have (somewhat)

accepted.

World turned

upside down

but –

seemingly

right side up.

I found a place

where I belong.

A purpose

amidst

a purpose-lacking

era.

Here’s to you.

To finding that purpose.

Emerging

from the pitfalls

that have disabled

our acceptance

or such a change

in mankind.

And unleashing

that naked desire

to succeed.

To be.

— behind that screen.

Or not.