A small bat flew low and
whispered in Wild Woman's ear:
"They are barbecuing my relatives,
and other creatures, and are blaming us
for the pandemic."
"The pandemic is not your fault,"
Wild Woman assured her,
offering her a bell-shaped blossom
so she could sip some nectar.
"Humans have been interfering
with wild creatures for too long,
and now we are paying the price."
Small Bat looked relieved.
"What can we do about this?"
she asked, sounding doubtful
that she could do anything at all.
"We humans can leave wild ones in the wild,
and close all the places where animals suffer,"
Wild Woman replied.
"Oh, that sounds good," smiled Small Bat,
stretching a foot up, curling it
around a branch, swinging softly
upside-down, and humming.
I am discouraged that, even though experts are calling for the closing of all global wild and exotic animal trafficking, and even though the virus began in the wet markets of Wuhan, that the markets reopened the minute the lockdown in China was eased. Experts say there will be another pandemic
if all such markets are not closed. Can you imagine? Another pandemic on the heels of this one?
for my prompt at earthweal: the connection between wild animals, us and the pandemic.
Perhaps the current situation will allow more individuals to become aware of the "rest" of the real world we live in?
ReplyDeleteElizabeth
I love how you offer a blossom to the bat and absolve it of blame. Wild Woman seems always to be wise and do the right thing. If only the world would join her.
ReplyDeleteI am shocked that the markets reopened, Sherry. I am against eating any animals, let alone wild ones. It’s not the bats’ fault, they are polite creatures and would thank you kindly for the nectar. I love the final image – just how it should be.
ReplyDeleteI was shocked - and disheartened - when the markets re-opened. We learn nothing, apparently. Experts say if the markets are not closed, there are 300 other pandemics waiting to be released.
ReplyDeleteOh, you gentle wild woman, of course you bring in the bat to speak! Such a narrative and interaction. May your words reach humanity's ears!
ReplyDeleteThis wild woman is wise. I too was shocked that the market reopened.
ReplyDeleteHow different bats appear when loved and listened to. For me the problem has to do with modern methods of poaching to (trespassing far and farther into the wild to sustain traditional appetites) conflicted further by the gluttony of wealth for exotic fare. How to protect fragile species from this, who knows, but it is a comfort that a Wild Woman can sing to them. Great challenge this week Sherry. -- Brendan
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