Not Essential Enough

Essential, we called you, as you brought our groceries to the curb

Essential, we called you, as you placed our packages near our tightly closed back door

Essential, we called you (though from too far for you to hear), as you continued to collect our trash

Not essential enough for a living wage, nor guaranteed healthcare so you could decide if you actually wanted to be essential 

Or if you, like us, would prefer safety in privileged isolation 

But rent was due

We tied your inadequate healthcare to a low-paying job we hope you can stay healthy enough to perform 

Or else we might cease to consider you

Essential

29 Mar 2020