My niece is headed to college in the fall
Whatever college may look like then
She knows her crown is set 
She’s run the race with pride
She’s emerged mighty, standing tall, breathing deep

Yet her high school farewell tour is cut short
No way to say goodbye to friends
No time to wave at those she held at bay
No knowing smile and nod to favorite teachers 

No final walk down quiet halls
No dance to go to or avoid
No pubic honors, final speeches, tossing of the tassels
No stern and silent pride
No moment in the sun 

Wandering narrower halls these days
On the edge of a world large and wide 
She looks for ways to say goodbye 
To her own high school self 

Robin J Phillips  April 18, 2020