The Blue Collar in the Hospital

Each time I am in a hospital, I am in awe

Of the dedication, commitment, of the passion raw.

The challenges of Covid-19 fought against daily,

No compromise on the treatment's quality.

The nurses have families, the ward boys too,

Some have stories of being in their buildings' taboo.

Yet they come, show concern

How can we with shame not burn?

What help we lend them, these warriors brave?

Each day they help avert dangers grave.

Checking, wiping, sweeping, mopping

Every newcomer tirelessly advising.

Protocols imposing, even as there is grumbling,

Persistently repeating, frustration sometimes revealing.

These are warriors, often cast aside,

Of the Doctors alone worship we abide.

But these sheet and dressing changers,

These rules implementers,

These frontline workers,

These are ours and the doctor's saviours.

So the next class on values and aspirations,

Should encourage participation in these vocations.

For what are we without the nurse and farmer and the sweeper?

What military, what white collar could without these prosper?

- Written on 12 Nov 2020.

- Was in hospital since an aunt had been hospitalised.