Blessed are the Mask Wearers |

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By Michael Spragins, Stafford County Democratic Committee Issues Committee Chair

It appears that the federal government has given up the fight against the novel coronavirus. In light of this, it now falls on us as individuals to do the best that we can to make sure that the virus is contained. Wearing a mask is the best way we can do that. However, some feel that it is an imposition on their “freedom.” Let me offer a couple of arguments that may help. Namely, capitalism and Christian sacrifice.

First, we are all capitalists and want businesses to get back on their feet and reopen as soon as practicable, but it should be clear by now that the way to reopen is to limit the spread of the virus. Putting politics ahead of science has caused us to lose all the advantage we gained from the initial closing of businesses. In short, those who do not wear a mask have put others in danger and out of business. Employees of the stores and shops should not be targets of the wrath of those who feel masks are unnecessary. We must wear shoes and shirts to be served, why not masks? It may be required for a while, but the benefit will be more employment and fewer bankruptcies. If you think this approach is wrong, then take a look at every other advanced economy in the world. They are opening up without difficulty and without the spread of the virus. We are the worst in the world and some seem to be proud of this.

Second, Christians have said that it is better to put the interest of others ahead of your own. Self-sacrifice is the point. Christ was the suffering servant. Not wearing a mask is a supreme act of selfishness. The mask does not protect the wearer as much as it helps protect others by not spreading virus that even asymptomatic wearers may have. It may also be seen on social media that many so-called Christians have been acting very ugly to those suggesting that they wear a mask, even when the local law requires it. Some have come to blows and worse over this simple request. Is the “Love Thy Neighbor” commandment not in effect during a pandemic? What would Jesus do? He would wear as mask. Blessed are the mask wearers for they shall not spread disease.

This is a post by a member of the Stafford County Democratic Committee. This post does not necessarily reflect the views of the Stafford County Democratic Committee, the Democratic Party of Virginia, or the Democratic Party of America.