I can't go, sorry, Covid

I go through the list

of people that are mad at me.
either slightly

or red eyed mad.

usually it's over something
said.

some small thing, or discussion
about current events.

but then it turns ugly and  feelings
get hurt.

oh well.
what are you going to do?

maybe you don't want to attend
some party

or go some where that you don't
want to go to.

the  annual fourth of july party

with potato salad

and hot dogs. screaming kids

running around

with their hands burned from

sparklers.

they get mad, feel slighted,

that you can't make the party,
but the good thing now is that all

you have to do is say Covid.
it's your get out of jail free card.

can't go, sorry. Covid.
how can anyone be mad about that.

you shrug, put your mask on and
say, see ya. maybe next year.