A lesson not learned!

‘Twas a messenger from Maid Marian who first brought the worrying news,

That a deadly disease was rife in Nottingham Town.

So Robin Hood was quick to act and made decisive plans,

Declaring Sherwood Forest in lock down!!

He demanded social distancing between his Merry Men,

 Imposed self-isolation, high in a tree.

But they were granted daily toilet breaks and a short walk to the stream,

To wash and scrub their hands, most vigorously.

Food and drink was hauled up by rope, in baskets and in pails.

And from leaves they improvised some facial masks.

They passed the time by swapping tales and singing boisterous songs;

 Making arrows, bows and other daily tasks.

This strict regime was maintained for weeks and kept things under control,

  It was vital, Robin said, for them to survive.

Their actions certainly saved the day and when they heard the threat had passed,

They knew how lucky they all were to be alive.

 It had been a grim, stark warning, a lesson to be learned,

For future generations to define.

But when the famous tales of Sherwood were passed down through the years,

 This story just got lost in the mists of time!

Now, eight centuries later, a new disease is back,

Yet the remedy required is just the same,

But we forgot the early importance of Robin Hood’s advice,

And got caught-up late in this deadly Covid game!!!

So, as we all pick up the pieces and begin to count the cost,

We salute the unsung heroes, every one.  

  The selfless, front-line champions who brought us through the storm,

The key workers who stayed resolute and strong!

Now it’s time to care for others, and seek justice for all,

 Re-distribute the wealth to do some good.

Perhaps now, more than ever, the world is going to need

 The values and the Spirit of Robin Hood!

Robert White

2020