I Need

by Jennifer Jolivert

I need to buy groceries.

I need to play with the cat for at least 10 minutes, or he’ll go stir-crazy.

I need to complete my anki reviews, or they’ll back up and become unmanageable.

I need to exercise, or I’ll be dysfunctional by the time this is over.

I need to vacuum my rugs, or my allergies will act up.

I need to volunteer, or I’ll feel completely useless.

I need to stay in, or risk spreading disease.

I need to call my parents; my mom’s a nurse and my dad’s immune compromised.

They’re doing fine, as is my grandma. I buy my groceries and get on with the day.