Mask up to reap great rewards

Previous editorials have urged citizens to wear masks in order to protect others, but seemingly to no avail, so I feel compelled to take one more swing at it.

What if we had more reciprocity!

“Me for You, and You for Me. “

And what if we had more compassion for our neighbors and friends, like

“My mask protects you and Your masks protect me!”

Just yesterday, I received a message from a life-long friend who asked, “Do you think the same people who are not wearing masks are the same ones who didn’t at first wear a helmet or a seat belt?” “In part”, I answered, followed by an instant flashback which made me recall my research about the risk factors in wearing and in not wearing a seat belt. I was on a fence then but decided to err on the side of caution where the odds were greater for my survival.

If I had been a biker or into activities that required a helmet - no questions asked, don the helmet - protection was a given. There didn’t seem to be any risk in wearing a helmet. AND so it is with a mask.

But I take that a step further. In wearing a mask, we know it can’t hurt us… it may not be the ultimate protection… however, it will protect others. Wouldn’t the sight of a mask on nearby folks make you feel warm and fuzzy…that you are protected from the ravages of Corona. If not one hundred percent, how about a lesser percentage. It is a given that a resurgence could be minimized if not eradicated by a little more compassion.

A recent report shared by a community health department stated that two hair stylists who tested positive to Covid 19 interacted with 146 clients and co-workers, but masks had been worn by all, so no further cases evolved.

My final point…Remember when stores had the “No shirt, no shoes, no service” policy? People who didn’t comply didn’t shoot the employees when told to leave the store. So why not now!!! Each business establishment could issue a directive, “Masks are required for shopping AND at check-out. This point gives the establishment power to help protect.

Reciprocity creates a mutually beneficial playing field, and Compassion creates a mutually enticing environment.

So, mask up to reap great rewards!

Sloan Rogers, formerly of Norristown; Winchester,

VA