Hit in pocketbook

The incidents of covid-19 infection in Arkansas continue to rise, claiming the lives of more and more of our citizens. One must ask why. As more businesses are opening up, I believe the rise in infections is due not so much to the increase in population circulation, but to the lack of strong leadership at the state level, and definitive actions to curb the spread of the virus.

Just saying that one must observe social distancing, or wear masks, or wash one’s hands, without any real substance as to penalties being levied when appropriate, is simply like yelling into the wind to stop a tornado. As we witness crowds of people ignoring good advice, ignoring concern for the common good as they march, or eat, or dance, or drink, or party, or even worship, I am left to wonder how they can think of themselves as above the rest of the population and have no self-discipline nor concern for others. They seem to have confused recklessness with courage, and freedom with “me-firstism.”

Aside from social distancing, what they fail to realize is that wearing a mask is, generally, not to protect them from the virus projected by others, but to protect others from them — from the droplets, however small, that drift in the air when they talk, sneeze, cough, and especially when they yell. However, it seems obvious that such people will simply continue their uncaring ways unless some serious checks are levied against their actions.

I propose that a fine of not less than $50 be given to those who are seen not wearing a mask in public, with very few exceptions such as eating or drinking, and then resuming their masks as soon as possible. While it is patently impossible to ticket everyone, doing so to as many as possible will send a very important message and will engage them where it really hurts — in their pocketbooks.

If they do not have courtesy and respect for others, perhaps this will send the message that we are all in this together and that we all must respect each other.

I don’t want to catch the virus — do you?

RAY MOORE Little Rock