Name:   Talullahhound - Subject:   Even FLY would agree...this is stupid Date:   4/29/2020 12:27:08 PM

The CDC recommends covering your nose and mouth with a mask.  When people can't take personal responsibility for their own good, then rules have to be made.  MM, of course you are right - the N-95 and a medical grade respirator provide the most protection for those that are dealing with sick people.  And given that there has been a shortage, I'm more than willing to let those medical people have whatever is available as a priority.  For weeks, I have been wearing a mask.  At first it was an N-95, because we happened to have one that had never been used, but now I am down to homemade masks that meet the CDC standards when I go out into public.  I can't swear that it works, but if it provides me a bit more protection than nothing, then I'm okay with that.  

Yes, stores may be doing a CYA for liability reasons.  It makes sense.  But I would rather shop in a store that requires reasonable precautions than just allowing people in nilly-willy.  Almost everyone I know feels like they are taking a risk when they go into Walmart. I really don't want to shop in the same store with those of you who aren't wearing a mask, because if you refuse to follow that CDC guideline, I don't know if you are following their guidelines to wash your hands frequently or if you are wiling to social distance.  it's not personal, but I don't think the CDC is just making stuff up.  And I don't want to get sick.  Maybe you don't care if you get sick or not, or believe that you are invincible.  I know I am not and I don't want to put myself or my husband at risk.  Yesterday I was at Costco in Montgomery and had to remind a woman to please social distance when she was practically on top of me, looking at meat.  

As far as Pence is concerned, in my opinion he should have worn a mask.  It doesn't matter that he knows he is not infected, but he was in a hospital environment.  Also, good leaders set an example.  You don't tell people to cover your nose and mouth and then don't follow this yourself.  He didn't want to wear a mask, because it can be hard for people to understand you when you talk, when you are wearing a mask.  For all I know, Trump has forbid his staff from wearing masks, likely because he sees the mask as a reminder that this virus is out there, even though he is wishing it weren't so.  

I am not cowering at home in fear.  I realize that I am making personal choices which is what responsible people do, not just what is good for me, but good for the community at large.