Pan

Panic in the air
Classes and events cancelled
I wait, so calmly.

"Don't just do something! Stand there."


When those around me grow frantic, I plan and dig in, erase worries, breathe. And wait for the trauma patient to roll in. This is my training, this is my nature. I worry most when no one else is. My role is to watch for the right thing to do. When there is nothing for me to do, I protect my sterile field. My mouth is closed and relaxed, in a way that makes speech reluctant.

Yes, the masks are on lockdown, because lots of boxes of masks have gone missing, and supply is already a problem. Mexico already makes a lot of our drapes, this could be a windfall for their economy.

One of our surgeons that I worked with briefly this week, has been in contact with the basketball player that is down with TheVirus. I don't think I touched him, but it is a potential vector. Dylan works with the public, the most unwashed of all, and is likewise feeling the anxiety.


So, I dug up nascent foxtail grass and planted lentils and black mustard seeds. Dig in dirt, tend my little spot of soil. Wait for signs.

The Law of Unintended Consequences is declaring a takeover, or not declaring which is more to the point. Everybody turn in your cards and pull out a random hand. The infinite improbability drive is engaged.

Watch for falling petunias. Or whales.