Masks?
Author: The Rev. Dr. David Bridges, Priest
August 25, 2021
To mask or not to mask, that is the socio-political
question. Whether ‘tis nobler to don the mask and be scoffed at, or deny the
mask and be otherwise labeled. I have been troubled many a fortnight with this
question.
When I was about 8 years old, an aunt that had been a
nurse in the 1940’s gave me an old surgical mask. I used to wear it and pretend
I was Dr. Ben Casey, or a character in one of my mother’s favorite soap operas,
General Hospital.
I wanted to be a doctor because my mother seemed to
really admire them. No one made fun of me for wearing that mask, because it
wasn’t a socio-political issue then. Most people would ask, “when you going
into surgery doc?”, or “lost any patients lately?”
Now I’m not sure if I should feel guilty for wearing a
mask or not wearing one! Either way, I will be criticized and labeled. Oh, the
horror of it all!
I struggle with all of this. On one hand, there is
reported evidence that masks can reduce the risk of transmission of the “evil
virus”. On the other hand, there is reported evidence to the contrary. I have
even read and heard that masks are dangerous because they can harbor bacteria
and cause sepsis.
I am honestly confused. Since I am not a scientist, I am
not sure who to believe. Both sides accuse the other of lying. I don’t have the
training or expertise to affirm or deny the “facts” on either side.
Meanwhile, I hear people making judgements about a
person’s basic intelligence, integrity, or patriotic sentiments, based on
whether or not they wear a mask. Some claim to be able to determine a person’s
political affiliations or sympathies based on whether or not they wear a mask.
I have even heard a person’s “manhood” questioned for
wearing a mask. I feel like I’m in kindergarten again. Children always pick on
the kid that isn’t like everyone else. The difference now is that we are all
adults and we are all picking on each other.
I don’t remember a time in my life when it was acceptable
to openly insult, and even laugh at each other, until now. It seems our most
popular national pastime is hating and insulting each other; followed closely
by shooting one another.
Does anyone else see where this is headed? If we keep
hating and killing each other, we are headed for mutually-assured destruction. Come
to think of it, biblical prophecy said we would do this. Perhaps the question
is, do you really want to be a part of it?
The Apostle Paul wrote to followers in Ephesus, “Get rid
of all bitterness, all rage and anger, all harsh words, slander and malice of
every kind. In place of these, be kind to one another, compassionate and
mutually forgiving, just as God has forgiven you in Christ.” (Eph. 4:31-32)
Blessings and Peace to You
All,
Fr.
David+
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