the day the playgrounds closed

​The playground is closed.  It is surrounded by yellow tape like those used in a crime scene.  The swings have been adjusted so there is no way children can play on them.  Signs are everywhere telling children to keep off, the playground is closed.  Silence is in the air.  No child dares to enter. 
 
So here we are, even the playgrounds are closed.  It makes my heart sad.  I know that it is necessary to do this, but it still brings up a sense of sadness.  I think about the days when children could play with delight.  They could swing, slide, climb, and explore the nooks and crannies of a playground.  I can hear the laughter.  I can hear the yells, “Watch me, look what I can do!”  I can see them playing with friends, making plans, exchanging ideas, challenging one another…  Oh, the joys of a playground.
 
For now, the playgrounds are closed.  If we stay away, hopefully one day soon, children will once again enjoy their local playgrounds.  Take care, my children.  For now, run and jump and explore your own outdoor area.  Discover all the wonderful and interesting things right in your own back yard.  Shout to your parents/guardians to see what you have found.  Yell to them to watch as you throw a ball in the air and catch it.  Challenge them to a race around your house.  Make plans for your next outdoor adventure in your own yard.  I am sorry that you cannot play with friends during this time, but enjoy the opportunity to play with your family. 
 
Take care, my children.  One day the yellow tape will come down.  The signs will be removed.  The swings will be readjusted to fit as you sit down to swing.  You will once again be able to slide, climb, and explore the playground with friends.  The sounds of children playing on the playgrounds will once more fill the air.      
 
For today, all playgrounds are closed.  
 
This is my journal entry for March 30, 2020 – the time of the COVID-19 crisis.  

​BEcky