Historical November–December 2020 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
To wear a mask or not to wear a mask, that is the question. I, and others I am sure, find wearing a mask to be uncomfortable. But, it is not worn for comfort or beauty. Masks can help you and others stay alive. It’s not a 100% guarantee but is at least 65%.
The anti-mask people remind me of those in earlier times who refused to wear seatbelts in cars when state laws made their use mandatory.
They were also seen as uncomfortable or restrictive.
The antis in both groups vowed to retain their freedom. Those against masks took their cue from President Trump. Even after Trump, his family, some senators and White House staff became infected with Covid, their rhetoric did not change. Their politics predicted their mask stance.
They refuted medical guidelines while raising the probability of becoming infected and infecting others. Those packed rallies without masks or distancing also represent for the participants their freedom.
A mask does not prevent freedom of speech.
It can mitigate against severe illness. “Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose.” But today it can be your health, the health of family and friends, or death.
When you use a mask as political symbol and don’t wear one, you agree to be losing everything.
We have been part of a community that has pulled together to overcome adversity. That sense of mutual commitment is absent from those who ignore the pandemic at their own risk. Covid becomes a hoax. Masks strip away your rights. Skewered priorities. Nothing left to lose.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, November–December 2020.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2020_11.pdf, printed page(s) 5; PDF page(s) 5.
