Research shows that more than 80% of what we communicate is non-verbal. With that being said, I challenge you to consider for one moment that the research is accurate and our nonverbal communication is a direct reflection of how we truly feel. Let’s look at the option of wearing masks which is constantly the topic of political debate. Seventy million Americans have been exposed to COVID-19. Over 200,000 have died as a result of their exposure and survivors are left with what could be lifelong medical challenges. Let’s assume for the sake of argument that wearing a mask, as the majority of medical scientists have recommended, will reduce our risk of exposure. Wearing masks protects others. When I’m wearing a mask I am protecting you and the very individuals who are not wearing masks. I know that deep in my heart, I am praying the mask will also offer me some protection as well.
Back to the non-verbal. If my wearing a mask protects you, what does your not wearing a mask do for me? It places me at a higher risk of exposure. If my face with a mask communicates that I care about other human beings. What does your face without one say? It says that you have no regard for other human beings! Whether intentional or not, that’s the message! And when an individual is infected and has infected those around him, recovering and continuing to socialize without a mask is a total disregard for human life. Americans, in general, are stressed! We are tired and frustrated with being held captive by a virus that has totally disrupted our quality of life. So many things are happening in our lives that we can not control. However, we can control kindness. We can send the positive message that we care about each other. Stay healthy, practice social distancing and consider random acts of kindness. Be a hero everyday and WEAR A MASK!
