SILENCE

For silence not to have a voice, It sure speaks volumes!  When we are offended by things we see or hear, we often lose our voice and keep our feelings and thoughts to ourselves. It is oftentimes difficult to confront strangers, but more difficult to confront our friends and families.  I most recently met a friend out doors for a brief gathering.  I was a little surprised that she showed up without a mask.  Because she did, I kept our visit brief and decided to leave earlier than I had planned.  Once I left, I could not let go of the feelings I had about the fact that she showed up without a mask.  And I pondered how to chat with her about it.  So, I just called and said  "what's up with the no mask?"  Her reply was simple, she had not thought about it, since she was outside.  I shared that I find it necessary to wear a mask when around others even when outside.  And that if we were to meet again, I would need for her to wear a mask.  She replied that she could do that and thanked me for telling her that I expected it.  It was clear that she did not have the same mindfulness about it.  I believe that we all have our own level of buy-in about the significance of masks and whether or not it really makes a difference.  We don't all have the same thoughts and beliefs about wearing masks or social distancing,  but we do need to have conversations about our needs and how to get those needs met.  And if we need different things, then we have something else to talk about.  Some things we can agree to disagree on and others we are going to have to take a stand on and accept some losses. In this new normal, it is what it is!!!