Wear a Mask

to wear - tragen

I really do not understand why it is so hard to wear the damn mask. I also don't understand how it has become a political statement to wear a mask.  All I know is masks save lives and for 99.9% of the population, it is not the end of the world to have to wear it.

I also realize I am clearly directing some anxiety to the mask discussion. With just days away from the US election and a hard lockdown on Austria, I admit there is a sense of anxiety.  Yes, as of Tuesday, Austria is introducing a hard lockdown which includes a curfew from 8pm-6am. Social interactions are limited to 2 households and no more than 4 people. All cultural activities are closed like museums and events. All hotels are closed. Schools are staying open for children until 14 but everything else is online.

So my anxiety might be toward my new university student that is determined to stick it out there. She loves her new city and life. For those of us that were 18 already - I am sure we would feel the same way. I may not agree 100% with the decision, but I am suppressing the urge to be an over protective mama bird and bring her back to the nest.  

Austria is cracking down and hoping the month of November will be about positive change - even if it is hard.  We are fortunate in that she has a safe space to be alone and a couple friends that live in walking distance so they can socially distance walk together - one at a time.  I am impressed with how quickly she has set herself up with a support system there.

Switzerland has added some restrictions, but not to the level that other neighboring countries have announced. We shall see if the current restrictions are enough.

As for my election anxieties, who knows if Tuesday will be the solution.

In closing, I send all my thanks to my friends on the ground working hard to try to save our country. May positive change, justice and peace prevail.

And wear the freaking mask.