Unmasked...Literally and Figuratively

 

The great news came out that fully vaccinated people can take off their masks indoors, in large crowds, and gather safely!  I am thrilled.

The day CDC said we should be wearing them, I sewed up my first mask and went to work.  I've worn one at work, restricted my public activities, and worn them indoors since because guidelines said we should.

I had Covid in July of last year. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. I sadly infected my husband with it who ended up with long-haul Covid effects furthering my concerns about infecting others.  I know people who have died from it, and know of so many others who lost family members.  I've seen the scared individuals who think they may have it or may get it, and missed out on so many family gatherings and friend gatherings due to potential to infect others.

You all know I'm a social person. I love to throw parties, gather with friends, share food and drink, adventure in the world and bring along whoever I can.  That was greatly reduced last year.  Did my life suffer? No, I found other things, but it could have been improved with more time including others.

So the update about masks for the fully vaccinated?! It's game on; time to play!

But something that bothers me, as it may you.  I am struck by the fact that of the people I know of that constantly pull their masks down in public, they are the ones that are against vaccination.  Many will take advantage of this new guideline that only exists because so many stepped up to the plate.  They already weren't wearing a mask, because well...?  They don't care or don't understand the scientific documentation that they can infect the old, the sick, the frail, or others who are/were perfectly healthy that can hold on to long term symptoms and breathing problems.  If it didn't effect them, right?

They will still go without a mask, freeloading off the society of the responsible.  They will reap the benefits of over 50% of the population doing the right thing and getting vaccinated, and they will feel vindicated in their decision as they continue to go maskless as infection rates go down. 

My suggestion, to myself and you? Move on.  Why argue anymore?  They aren't the ones to try to convince as actual scientific documentation doesn't work on them, and it cuts in to your joy in life to try to raise their comprehension level.

Much as we may want to, policing this is futile.  Control what you can in life--can we control those that took advantage of unemployment without the need for it during this time?  Can we control those that took advantage of the extended leave time from their employers during this time?  No.  But how we receive it in our mind is something we can control--be bitter and let it weigh on our mind creating a toxic environment, or remember that we did the right thing and live happily with our integrity.

Sure, there are a few that can't vaccinate due to medical reasons or being too young at the moment.  And there are plenty that will take advantage of the new mask guidelines, under the radar and cheating the system.  But knowing and believing in yourself is everything.

So bask in the glory of knowing you did the right thing. Take off the mask and know your integrity earned it. Let's get out their and live, have adventure, be spontaneous--and going forward, let's do it together!

One Live; Live It!