And what will you feel
when death,
as you proclaim,
passes you by

Targets
a beloved aunt,
an elderly neighbour,
a nephew with asthma

Will you pause
to ponder your part
express regret
for misplaced pride

Or preoccupied
with your own rights
sporting chest protruding blinders
will you deny accountability?

“The president doesn’t wear a mask”
you pronounce the words as gospel
too young to recognize that choices
have consequences, irreversible

Risks, by nature, require careful consideration
recklessness an unworthy motivator
Reward is in the conquering – fear, doubt
No treasure gained when tragedy ensues.

***

Life is risk, and always there is consequence, and sometimes reward. Risk-reward has been the focus this week and I thank all for participating. My risk is putting out a challenge each week, and the reward is you!

Please check out these wonderful contributors:

Hansel & Gretel – Part 2, I Write Her
Not Yet, MMA Storytime
Memories From Afar, POETRYPALETTE
The woods are lovely dark and deep…, Heart to Heart
Tall Trees, Sgeoil
The Moth, parallax
Volunteering, THE BAG LADY
Patience, one letter UP
Presence Missed, Stuff and what if…

See you tomorrow with a new challenge!