Issues surrounding the pandemic had their movements, down and sideways since March of 2020. A year, a time we will never forget. Since then, it scared most of us into following the guidelines from various health departments. We were advised to physically distance when in a crowd, wash our hands frequently but above all, wear a mask when in public.
Research is on-going, guidelines change from one day to the next, and we adapt to these new norms as we have no other choice. What is the intelligent thing to do if the option is only between inconvenience and sickness?
The wearing of masks, especially, took on a life of its own. There are loads of masks to choose from: whimsical, sporty, patriotic and designer types. The list goes on! But we concur to protect ourselves and others.
Facemasks are the most important symbol of the pandemic, and it is one of the most effective tools to stop the contagion. But, wearing a face mask, one has to make a conscientious effort to use the eyes for a smile, a frown, a laugh, sometimes without saying a word. Although our words sound muffled behind a mask, the sparkle in the eyes conveys laughter, pleasure, displeasure, anger and a whole range of other emotions. If one wants to capture someone’s attention, the eyes’ intensity will do the trick.
I think at, first, the most common expression behind the mask was one of fear. Knowing that we are all in this together, we need to make the most of it.
In the end, we will beat this contagious virus, but in the meantime, let our smiles be more virulent. I always maintain that one smile begets another.
Masked faces do not need to hide them because the eyes have it all!
It’s just my opinion.
É.H.
