Let’s face it, face masks are uncomfortable. But I’d rather wear a face mask now than an oxygen mask later.
In response to the latest COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney, our state government took a swift action to make face masks mandatory again in all indoor areas.
Last Wednesday when I was in a local supermarket, I spotted a group of 3 young people not wearing face masks upon entering the store. Politely but firmly, I turned around and told them to comply with the rule. They did immediately. To be honest, afterwards I felt a bit bad about having to tell them off. In all seriousness, it was none of my business. I didn’t work there, I was just another shopper like everyone else. Why should I care? But No more Mr Nice. I did not regret telling them to do the right thing.
Just when I thought it was a happy ending, as I proceeded to the other aisles, unfortunately I saw a few more shoppers wandering around not having face masks on. I soon realised, I can’t help everyone and not everyone wants to be helped. At the end of the day, it’s their responsibility.
When I finished shopping and was about to leave the premises, I took a peek at the surroundings, to my horror, I noticed another person not wearing a face mask inside the store. He was a GP (a doctor) I used to see many years ago. I was a bit speechless.
For some silly reason, I could hear my own voice trying to justify their behaviour – not wearing a face mask. Perhaps they have already got a vaccination and so on. Then I stopped and thought No, a rule is a rule. If people don’t like it or think it’s unfair, they can go to court to challenge it and have it removed. But in the meantime, let’s all do our part to keep our community safe. To put things into perspective, think about a range of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) those frontline health workers are wearing day in and day out: surgical masks, face shields, gloves, long-sleeved gowns etc. For the rest of us, wearing a face mask when going out and about is not a big ask at all.
Should I wear a face mask? For me, it’s not even a question. I wear a face mask to protect myself and others and I am proud of it…
Ted Tsai 