36 years ago Don Henley wrote “The Boys of Summer,” the title borrowed from a book about the Brooklyn Dodgers. It came on the radio as I was finishing my run this morning, searching for something to write about. The words seemed prophetic, as if written about pandemic isolation: 

“Empty lake, empty streets
The sun goes down alone.”

In sharp contrast are the current riots where everyone is now on the streets after the sun goes down. Summer is right around the corner, but the boys have yet to play this year, while the Brooklyn Dodgers no longer exist. Killing has led to more killing and businesses that have been closed for months now have to deal with bricks through their windows. Millions are unemployed, perhaps giving them more time to get in late night trouble. Bars are closed, so they don’t have an outlet to drown their sorrows or vent frustrations.  

These are my scattered thoughts, as I prepare for another quiet day of self-quarantine, to-go food, and no sports to watch on TV. Some might call it “Hell.” Regardless, I did not get on my riot gear, make a picket sign, and join the masses spreading the virus, just for something to do. Virtual rioting might have been a better option and destruction does not solve anything. There are some that argue that nothing will ever change unless you take something else away. Revenge is not the answer and restraint is essential when a health threat is present. If this continues, this year’s “Boys of Summer” will carry disease along with a bat intent for someone’s head.

“The lake is busy, the streets are full,
“While the virus quickly spreads.”