A lot of people may see me wearing my mask in public and think: She’s paranoid. She’s too extreme. COVID is over, right? Why are you still wearing a mask?
To that, I think: I don’t think you are cautious enough. COVID is not over, the people in power just wanted to get back to “normal,” whatever that means, no matter the cost. Even if it costs lives.
And why am I still wearing a mask?
Obviously, and primarily, to protect myself and my community from viral and contagious diseases.
But I also found that I like wearing masks.
I’m sensitive to smell. And being able to use a public bathroom without having to smell it? Elite, honestly.
I feel better, physically and emotionally, when I wear a mask. It eases a lot of anxiety.
Yes, I go to restaurants. And coffee shops. But unless I’m eating, I’m wearing a mask. And when the weather is nice, I far prefer eating outside.
Yes, I go to events. The library, the museum. I love going to concerts. But I wear a mask. And I feel so much better for it.
I even travel. And believe me, wearing a mask to filter that dry, recycled airplane air has done wonders for comfort.
Wearing a mask does not stop me from enjoying my life. In fact, it allows me to do so.
Wearing a mask has become so instinctual, that now I feel uncomfortable in public without one.
Fun fact: I have not been sick in nearly five years. I’ll still knock on wood to keep that up, but consistently wearing my mask is what accomplished that.