Personal responsibility key in these pandemic times

The coronavirus pandemic and the global shutdowns to contain its spread have understandably been a source of anxiety and frustration to Americans. Even with the extraordinary measures taken to limit its spread, COVID-19 has claimed the lives of over 130,000 Americans and many more around the world.

We all want to return to a time when we can go to our favorite businesses without masks and barriers. We all want to be able to visit with friends and family without feeling like we’re taking a risk. And we all want to live without the specter of a virus that is not only destroying lives but which prompts government to curtail liberty.

For the most part, Americans have seriously responded to the demands of these times. Businesses have responded with stepped-up cleanings, crowd controls and have moved toward expanded use of telework when feasible. Individuals have long ago ended the panic-buying of the early weeks, while dutifully taking the sort of sensible precautionary measures needed to limit the spread of the virus.

With these efforts, Americans have fortunately been able to see a glimmer of normalcy in recent weeks and months. Increases in cases, and spikes in hospitalizations, are regrettably resulting in some restrictions.

While there is plenty of room to critique the merits of any particular measure undertaken, what we as individuals must do is take ownership of how we conduct ourselves.

As with handwashing and weighing the risks of certain activities, it shouldn’t, and doesn’t, take government mandates to realize the value of wearing masks when in close contact with others.

A free society is one that relies on individuals making informed

What we as individuals must do is take ownership of how we conduct ourselves.

decisions and behaving in a way that respects the bodily autonomy of others. Research here in the United States and around the world make clear that mask-wearing is associated with reduced spread and death rates. The right thing to do, then, is obvious. You don’t have to like mask mandates to recognize the value of wearing masks.

Your life and liberty are valuable. So are the lives and liberties of others. You should wear your mask, wash your hands and continue to take precautions, not because you’re told to do so, but because they’re the right thing to do.