Contagion

We wash our hands
and blow our noses
leaving thoughts
like solid waste
separating
segregating
to avoid bad taste.
Falling
failures
dripping
dissent
heaving sighs
with impotence.
We soothe our conscience
if we have one
betraying
belying
with sordid haste.
Calling
courage
maligning
love
leaving ties
to truth undone.