In extraordinary times, synchronicities flourish. And because one day flows into another, it’s challenging to keep these synchros lined up in any order. But here’s how this one went – about personal face masks.
Recently, when I’ve gone to the grocery store, I’ve been seeing more and more people wearing gloves. Face masks. And I’ve wondered, unless these people work in the heath care industry, where do they get their masks? Are they really necessary? Given that most of the rest of the world, at least in photos I see, are wearing them, this seems like a naive question. Yet, there’s something deep down about this mask business that’s really significant as a symbol – for Americans – of our new normal.
I try not to live in fear – but I pay attention to statistics about how quickly this virus is spreading. I called my sister, Mary, in Georgia. She’s a retired nurse who worked for years in assisted living facilities, which are being hit hard right now – along with nursing homes – by the virus. We got to talking, as people usually do, about the shortage of toilet paper and paper towels, and mentioned she’d bought personal face masks on Amazon that would arrive between April 10-14, pretty good these days for a Prime order.
Me: Do you think we need them?
Mary: Yeah. I tried a bandana today when I went to Kroger’s and I couldn’t breathe.
This image actually made me laugh. My sister with a bandana across her nose and mouth, riding into a western town like some sort of bandita with guns at her hips.
Me: I heard that only sick people should wear them.
Mary: Amazon. Soroling personal face masks, 26 bucks, free shipping.
I’d been talking to her outside while tossing Frisbees for Nigel, and went back inside to order my masks. They were in stock, would arrive between the dates Mary had said. But while I was completing my purchase, a news banner popped up on my screen.
From the afternoon briefing, it was learned that the CDC may recommend that all Americans wear personal masks when they’re out in public. All of this happened in about 40 or 45 minutes. So my order preceded the CDC recommendations. I predict that by tomorrow, hose masks will be sold out.
So this becomes a precognition as well as a synchro.
I read that the surgical masks (which are in the above picture) are really not particularly effective. I have particle masks (which I bought at Home Depot) which actually cover the nose and mouth and are much more effective. The advantage of the surgical masks is that like gloves they can be thrown away. What masks are trying to protect against are airborne droplets from people who are coughing, sneezing, or perhaps laughing as well.
Trump is quick to add he won’t be wearing one.
I’ve got a few of those over-the-ear masks like the one on the right. I hadn’t used them because I rarely venture out unless I’m alone. It’s impossible to find any masks or gloves anywhere these days. Glad you ordered them just before they disappeared. I hope you and your family are holding up. I read every post but rarely comment. Just wanted you to know I’m here. 🙂
Good to her from you, DJan. I keep up with you on your blog. Stay well!