Mask mandate

The governor of Indiana announced plans to sign an executive order today requiring anyone 8 years or older to wear a face-covering in public indoor places, public transportation, and outdoor public spaces when it isn't possible to distance. It's part of the #maskuphoosiers campaign.

This article in the Journal Gazette was the best explanation I could find at the moment. The order goes into effect Monday, July 27th. In a nutshell, "The simple act of covering our faces ... can help us prevent the transmission of the virus,” the governor said. That sounds simple enough.

Citing rising positive tests, hospitalizations, deaths in the state, and the effectiveness of masks, this is an attempt to get a better grip on the situation, especially before schools restart.

There will be exceptions - for medical reasons, eating and drinking, and strenuous physical activity (including exercise). Apparently, the Y where I work will not require them to work out, but suggest people wear them as they enter and leave. but will require them to enter and leave the building (at least that's the latest of like four versions I've been told).

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Personally, I am all for it. I wish it had been done months ago on a national level. It shouldn't have to be left up to cities, states, and individual businesses to make decisions like this. Of course, that wouldn't help the president in his attempt to start a civil war and create total chaos across the land.

I've been wearing a mask all day every day at work since late May, plus anytime I go to a public place (which is mostly just the grocery store). Honestly, I get a little freaked out by people who refuse to wear them. I mean, you can do what you want, but stay the f*ck away from me!

I had to work with a guy yesterday who refused to practice safe distancing, and I constantly have issues with my boss not masking and standing too close and using my computer. Maybe I am an over-reactor, but it causes me not just a little anxiety. I'm not sure where the line is before it becomes a hostile work environment.

Hopefully the public reaction won't be as bad as I anticipate, but I'm not optimistic. People are stupid, and stupid people seem to be running the show anymore. I'm pretty stressed imagining the number of people I'm going to have to listen to who think it's hogwash. My job working at the front desk - where I must greet every single person coming and going not only from my place of business but a bike shop and physical therapy office as well - requires that I not be able to share my personal feelings. You know that's not easy for me! I'm just about at the end of my rope having to hear everyone else's opinion. I come home mentally and physically exhausted every day, and I'm not sure how much more I can take.

So, count me in as a masker. If nothing else it hides the expression on my face. Which you don't want to see most of the time!

"You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule." (Matthew 5:3)