MASKS: Keep this in mind

I am tired of the whole mask debate. I recently received this from a friend and I thought I would share with our wonderful community. Please take heart.

When I wear a mask in public or decline an invitation to a party or to come inside, I want you to know that:

• I am educated enough to know that I could be asymptomatic and still give you the virus.

• No, I don’t “live in fear” of the virus, I just want to be part of the solution, not the problem.

• I don’t feel like “the government is controlling me.” I feel like I’m being a contributing adult to society and I want to teach others the same.

• The world does not revolve around me. It’s not all about me and my comfort.

• If we could all live with other people’s considerations in mind, this whole world would be a better place.

• Wearing a mask doesn’t make me weak, scared, stupid or even “controlled.” It makes me considerate.

When you think about how you look, how uncomfortable it is or what others think of you, just imagine someone close to you — a child, a father, a mother, a sibling, grandparent, aunt or uncle — choking on a respirator, “alone” without you or any family member allowed at bedside. Ask yourself if you could have sucked it up. Was it worth the risk? Let that soak in.

ELLEN GUTOWSKI

Post Falls