I can't figure out if it is laziness, a form of protest against the mandate to wear a mask, or a general disregard for the planet we all live on and the people we live amongst. Over the last couple of months I have encountered a new form of litter on the streets and sidewalks around town - face masks. And not just disposable ones. I've seen a couple of nice masks that I was tempted to pick up, take home, and wash. I won't do that unless I come across a really cool tie-dyed one. I have grown accustomed to seeing flossing picks, cigarette butts, liquor bottles, and drink cups. I don't know why I should be surprised that people who are inclined to litter would add their face mask to the mix.
I generally pick up garbage when I am walking and deposit it in the nearest receptacle. Often I carry a plastic grocery bag in my pocket for this purpose. I am a girl scout at heart and I believe that we should always leave a place cleaner than we found it. I have tried to pass this principle along to my children and grandchildren. One of my daughters refused to walk with me when she was a teenager because she was afraid of getting a reputation as the Garbage Lady's daughter. I told her she should be so lucky and that her future self would be sorry that she did not aide me in my efforts. My lessons fell on deaf ears at the time but twenty years later I am pretty sure she has come around to my way of thinking.
Like so many things that I have experienced in the last six months, I find this incredibly depressing. Please people, I appeal to your better nature. Put your damned mask in your pocket and throw it away at home.
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I appreciate you comments and support. Stay safe and wash your hands.