DAY 89

When I started this blog I never dreamed that I would still be at it eighty-nine days later. I was sure that the original school closing would go on for longer than three weeks, but the idea that we would still be here three months later was beyond the imagination. Yet, here we are. Three months of fear, uncertainty, illness, and death. Even though businesses are opening up and so many people feel free to resume their previous lives, I know many who are not ready to embrace a life of close contact with others. The virus is obviously still circulating. In many states, the number of cases continues to rise. So how do we go forward and what will we face in the future if we are not extremely smart about our interactions with the world?

I read an article about the response in Japan to the COVID 19 pandemic. The Japanese did not do many of the things recommended to slow the spread of the virus, but they did one thing immediately -  everyone began to wear a mask when they went out in public. As a result, the number of cases has been a fraction of what we have seen in the United States. We were told in the beginning to stop buying masks. There was no clear direction regarding the effectiveness of wearing a mask to prevent the spread of the virus. We were slow to begin this practice and even now when the evidence is clear people refuse to wear them because they are uncomfortable or they don't like the way they look. Not wearing a mask is seen by many as a political statement, which makes no sense to me whatsoever. This virus does not respect your politics.

A whole industry has sprouted up to fill the need for face masks. Companies have issued masks sporting their corporate logo to their employees. Patterns for masks, including some with cute animal faces for kids, began appearing on Pinterest in a hot minute. I received a package from Blue Cross/Blue Shield with a mask, disposable thermometers, and a packet of lettuce seeds. I am not sure how they think the lettuce is going to protect me, but I appreciate the thought. I am continuing to make face masks for my friends and family and to donate to the local hospital. I hope that face masks become the new fashion statement for 2020. I think I will make myself a tie-dyed mask and let my freak flag fly.