Half a Yellow Lemon and a Ginger Cup of Tea

I shouldn’t be at work today.
There are germs orbiting my aura
and I’m currently carrying an entire pharmacy in my handbag.

I have two diagnoses and my doctor asked
if I needed a work excuse.

I told her Tax Day is Monday
and that I don’t have time for strep or a sinus infection,
let alone this headache and achy muscles.

I left with a warning to wear a mask
and to stay away from people.

I’ve shut myself in my office,
closed the door and put a note on the window:
I’m infected. Stay away.

Which is why I was surprised by a quiet knock
about the time I would usually make a cup of tea.

The angel of a receptionist opened the door,
wearing her own  mask, and held a pretty plate with
half a yellow lemon, a slice of buttered toast, and my ginger tea.

“I know you didn’t eat breakfast this morning,
and I figured the tea and lemon might help your throat.”

I raised my weary head as she placed it
on the edge of my desk and backed out,
leaving me to wonder what I ever did to deserve such kindness.