Masks

I'm aware it's been quite some time since I've written a blog entry, and that's because I've undertaken the endeavor of writing a book once again. However, as with any task of such a nature, one is prone to encounter periods of fatigue and I can safely say I'm in just such a window. So here I am going back to the blog and what better topic to open back up with than one of current events.

As of right now, much of the debate concerning the masks and their efficacy in terms of combating Covid-19 has died down. Both sides are firmly set in their stances regarding the matter, and the bizarre politicization of the subject has persisted. Where do I stand on the matter? Here is what I think: we can argue all day and night about whether or not they "work", despite the fact that most who wish to engage in such debate lack any type of scientific background and have made no misconception about their personal bias. We can talk until the sun goes up about how one may dislike the masks but at the end of the day, we need to consider this: this virus is an unprecedented ordeal for the world.

We've dealt with pandemics in the past, but the world hasn't seen one of such magnitude in quite some time and I think we have prepared quite poorly. Where I see masks playing into the matter is in the role of, if anything, a sign of solidarity. Of course the Corona Virus is a respiratory illness, so it should make sense that having people cover their breath would slow the spread of the illness, yet it still seems that many wish to argue that. Personally I don't really care for the arguments that have been put forth concerning the anti mask stance. Many were disproved during pandemics of the past, yet bizarrely they are still being pushed.

I see the masks as just a simple aspect of hygiene under the current circumstance and they really aren't much of an inconvenience. I also see them, possibly more importantly, as a means of communicating one simple message: I care. When I go out into town, I'll throw one on, for the simple reason of, if anything, maintaining an appearance of concern. I think the image alone of an individual draped in a mask is a profound reminder of the circumstance we have all found ourselves in. And such reminders appear to be very necessary.

I've tragically seen many who wish to simply pretend that the pandemic isn't going on, even as thousands continue to die from it. I've said it before and I'll say it again; I believe this comes from a stark and sincere selfishness on the part of such individuals. The masks may be a symbol of solidarity for a large portion of society, but another portion wishes to paint them as a symbol of oppression. I could write on and on about how much that concept frustrates me. I could write on and on about how this shouldn't be a political issue, but this is a factor that seems to be out of my control. Coming to accept this concept is difficult but it is a struggle that has transcended many facets of my life and is simply my burden to bear.

What I can do, and what every other like minded individual can do, is everything they can to at the very least not contribute to the issue. Local governments are doing everything they can to combat the spread of the illness but their efforts will pale in comparison to the actions taken by the populace. Therefore I see it as my responsibility, as a member of said populace, to take action, to do my part in snuffing out this illness, and to do my best to tune out the obscene "debate" regarding the measures being taken to combat this virus.

It is my sincere hope that there are enough people like me in this torn and tattered nation to get this calamity under control. One can only do their part and hope. While this may be the most unsatisfying circumstance to find oneself in, it is the type of circumstance that will highlight either ones strength or weakness, and I intend for it to highlight my own strength and fortitude.