Reality on the Line

So many bodies these days believe
we long to do their job for them
that we’ve not enough chores of our own
are short of something to do.

Our high street bank has now closed its doors
sulking ‘You can do it online’
as only a hundred customers
had no other way to bank.

Supermarkets are cutting down tills
changing over to self-service
maybe they’d like us to stack the shelves
or drive a delivery van.

Energy and utility firms
travel companies, health and tax
all keep pushing how easy it is
for us to do all their work.

Down at the local library now
can access a huge range of books
opportunities are aplenty
only if you can download.

Many are being left far behind
through their age or circumstances
unable to access what they need
or track down help and advice.

Everything is changing far too fast
in this Communication Age
there’s no time to think, absorb or learn
can feel the desperation.

‘Stay connected’ they keep on saying
as long as it’s with a machine
isolated in separate places
living whole lives through a screen.

Oh for the tactile, tangible world
away from endless flashing lights
soft green grass and trees, a gentle breeze
a real paper book to hold.

Natural space to breathe and relax
clear the mind’s digital clutter
fully engaging all the senses
an actual helping hand.