Recognition of care shows respect
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Editor,
Reading the Valley Journal yesterday highlighted the differences in how we think; for example, there are those claiming a mask requirement goes against our fundamental American rights of free choice at the same time our legislature is working on restricting women’s rights to exercise free choice regarding the health and protection of their bodies. Where is the same level of objection to that effort?
Masks do not prevent one from getting COVID-19 is my understanding. Masks are used to prevent the wearer from spreading the disease if they have it but are unaware. Not wearing a mask says you do not care about others, only yourself. I have not seen a non-mask wearer seek to distance themselves from me as I wear one walking in a store. To at least signify a caring recognition, a step or two right can be taken from both people in passing or turning a head to one side. More often, the non-masked step is a stride continued with an intentioned air of purported superiority. I see it as one of ignorance and selfishness.
Lastly, this same show of self-indulgence is frequently seen on the highway, particularly in winter. How many cars have you noticed not driving with daylight headlights on during our winter season? Yes, you can see ahead of you without your headlights on. No, your vehicle is not as visible to someone crossing your path or pulling out onto the road without your headlights on. Without a law, again, it is your right to create a danger to others by thinking only of yourself.
As an ex-career law-enforcement officer I am really surprised at how many of our official cars do the same. I have no doubt their non-use is not based on selfishness but more on company policy. Do the research and perhaps we can save more Montana lives on our roadways. Also, don’t remain hypocritical and claim constitutional rights while allowing our legislature and governor to blithely remove them from selected classes of Montana Americans.
Rich Bell
Polson
