by Joanie Butman
The debate over wearing masks rages on, and it baffles me what constitutional right the anti-maskers feel is being violated. The freedoms we enjoy in this country came at a high price, and one we should honor with a personal responsibility to behave in a way that doesn’t jeopardize others. The only thing being violated by someone not wearing a mask is the safety of the public at large. Perhaps we should resurrect George Washington’s Rules of Civility, which were actually written by French Jesuits in 1595. While they may seem antiquated, their focus is not. They are foundations of behavior that center on the welfare of others over self-centered interests or desires. They are the small sacrifices that we should all be willing to make for the good of all and the sake of living together. * There is nothing outdated about that principle.
Human behavior doesn’t change. There was a backlash over the wearing of masks during the Spanish Flu pandemic as well. Sadly, we are no closer to a vaccine for foolishness or selfishness today than we were then. Actually, Jesus is still the only cure for that kind of disease. When you realize how deeply loved you are and what He sacrificed for your salvation, obeying the greatest commandment becomes second nature. "`Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: `Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
I was shocked to learn there are 110 rules of civility. God only gave us ten commandments, and most of us can barely remember those. It all comes down to the Golden Rule I suppose, which is based on Mathew 7:12: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” Amazingly, in our divisive world, this tenet is one on which most world religions are in complete agreement.
How difficult is it to don a mask in public? We wear masks all the time – just not the kind that are held on by elastic. Oddly, we are usually more comfortable behind our invisible masks but balk when we’re asked to put on a fabric one. Personally, I enjoy the anonymity it provides. A variety of masks. hats and sunglasses disguises the embarrassing frequency of my visits to the local ice cream store!
No one likes wearing a mask. It’s uncomfortable and difficult to breath or converse. Nevertheless, it’s not about the individual. We do it out of concern and consideration for others. We all have the freedom to choose to be foolish, self-centered and/or reckless – but not at the expense of others. This is a glaring example of the power of personal choice and the infinite impact it has on you, your family, your community, and our world... choose wisely!
*http://www.foundationsmag.com/civility.html