*Corresponding Author:

Dr. Alan L. Nager, MD, MHA,

Division of Emergency and Transport Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd., Mailstop 113, Los Angeles, CA 9002, USA; Tel: 323-361-412; Fax: 323-361-3891; E-mail: anager@chla.usc.edu

There was a term that came to be

It made us feel, think and act awkwardly

“Social distancing” was the name first devised

But, it just felt wrong to be publicized

It seemed we were locked in a personal bubble

The threat of COVID-19, the mask-wearing struggle

We strived to support and nurture each other

In our attempt to emotionally recover

“Physical distancing," the subsequent name

Was a dubious term in this word game

Both names made people scatter, and fret

The situation compelled a better term, yet

It required a theme that had meaning and purpose

For sure, not a phrase that could emotionally hurt us

We needed a term that put reason with a goal

That gave people rights, a unique special role

A chance to be responsible for both you and me

While being mindful of others to act healthfully

The term, “healthy distancing” is what we propose

It may catch on, albeit, who knows

To conjure up care, love, concern, and respect

Compassion, protection, the ideal effect

To signal positivity and offer anew

A chance to recover for those anxious and blue

A term less prescriptive, more realistic and fair

Perhaps, more accepted for us all to bear

People may shudder and be confused, for sure

Yet, some may accept it, as it has some allure

In words there is health, so let’s adopt what is best “Healthy distancing” is the term, we politely request.

Conflicts of Interest: No conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise, to disclosure.

Keywords: social distancing; physical distancing; healthy distancing; COVID-19

PEER REVIEW

Not commissioned. Externally peer reviewed.