JIM’S WIFE
I have a lot of opinions abut wearing a mask. Let’s face it, we are all going to have to wear a mask to make the effort to keep from getting the virus and from passing it around if you should unknowingly have it.
I know, I fight against wearing one, too. I do not like the way it makes me feel. I never knew I had a bit of claustrophobia, but apparently when you place something over my nose and mouth, I tend to panic.
I’m in the in-between stages of finding the perfect fit. I even made some which I did not like at all. I made them much too thick with the filter. I feel like the heavier-weight mask makes me sound like the killer in a horror movie with the heavy breathing — a bit like Darth Vader. Let’s not even discuss how you tend to sweat underneath it.
The lighter-weight and the paper masks feel better; however, I do not love the feeling of breathing in my own hot air. I like to think that my breath is like the unassuming flutter of butterfly wings, but after wearing a mask. I now know it is most like the exhaust from a monster truck.
So, find the mask you are most comfortable with and wear it. Wear it properly, over the mouth and nose. Under your nose does not help anyone in any way. I am guilty of moving my mask down a few times just to gasp for clear air. But I try not to and I do pull it right back up. I know, that is still not correct.
I also have faced the dilemma in the grocery store trying to get a bag open for my vegetable purchase. I looked around, and no one was having the problems I was. Apparently, aside from hot air, I also have dry fingers. I am that person in the middle of the grocery store shoving her finger up her mask to lick it to get the bag open. I felt and, I am certain, looked like an idiot.
I know there are problems with people with hearing loss not being able to help to listen by reading lips. I know that many, many people are facing this dilemma and I do not have the answer for this. I am told that face shields are great but should also be utilized with the mask. I do know that by wearing the mask it is hard to understand everyone. I feel like I am yelling at people and maybe I am but I try to make sure I am understood.
Oh, you thought this article was going to explain mask etiquette? No, I’m asking. I do know to wear the thing anytime you are around others. Keep it over your mouth and nose. Do not breathe so loudly that you scare small children. Speak plainly and raise your voice to be properly heard. If you see someone not wearing the mask what do you do? I do not think we should all become the mask police and create a public drama. How long can you hold your breath?
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE July 31 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR.