There was a time, when no one was certain whether COVID would continue in the manner it began. Mask wearing was wise and, I have been (we have all been) less sick by wearing the mask.
Deaths have come and gone, Covid is diminished, vaccines have been taken. And at some point we have to live life and take risks. Here in Texas many died, but they aged or had underlying issues. Many many more have also survived covid.
I am grateful I live in Texas because we “ripped” the “bandaid” mask off a long time ago. Although we feel free. We have all agreed to respect wearing and not wearing of the mask. We are all friends. If we hear or see a “contagion” or signs we wear the mask. Thankfully it’s not the law and there are no fine.
BUT it is because we feel safer, that we take these risks. Those of us that don’t wear masks do so KNOWING there is still a risk, even if we are (or aren’t) vaccinated. A mask can still help me avoid other viruses. I haven’t taken off any time from work- I haven’t been sick or contagious…in part because people are more careful about coughing or staying home or wearing masks. So I don’t mind when I see a sign that says no mask, no service. But I’m glad the sense of urgency of masks has come and gone in our community. Many I know and trust have gotten COVID and recovered at home with flu like symptoms. Not what was intially going around “I can’t breathe, I can’t walk” type symptoms. I hope it continues that way. And that whether its anger or frustration, people live more freely. Hopefully our systems are all stronger for having had covid or the vaccines.
