To wear a mask or not, that’s the question. OK, I get it wearing a mask is not the way I want to live my life 24/7. I feel slowed and can’t breathe so easily. Additionally, I wear glasses, and face masks are doubling troubling while wearing glasses. I’m continually fogging up my glasses, and my already challenged eyesight is stressed further with a mask on. But, I get it and do wear one whenever I’m out in public or whenever I can clearly see others whom I interact with are wearing theirs. It’s a respect thing.
I recently had the privilege of attending my granddaughter’s first birthday in Denver, and we flew direct San Diego to Denver. It was an eye-opening experience. The Denver Airport, which I’ve flown in and out all my life, was an eerie experience. What would generally be a hustling, get-out-of my way bustling collection of travelers from all over the world was all but a ghost town. Shops closed, restaurants closed sans a couple of strategically placed McDonald's and one Starbucks. The full impact of the virus beyond my limited view was apparent and felt. A sadness prevailed but, we soon were beyond this and relished
our time with our newest member of the family.
But, I can’t shake the feeling of sadness even two-weeks later over the reality of what we are experiencing. I have to remind myself that we’re better off than we were March 18th when we were given the orders to shut-down and hunker at home.
And one more thing, I’m willing to wear a mask if that’s what it takes to move this virus along and get back to business. Our restaurant industry here in Escondido is made up of a lot of fine people who are doing their best to survive through this time. Please understand that your server is not the one who is setting the rules regarding masks but merely trying to comply with the protocols in place to allow them to open and serve.
I do see signs of resurgence and do believe that we will get beyond this but, it definitely is getting old.
My goal is to be considerate of others, work together whenever possible, and look for the positive in everyone and everything regularly. Pollyannaish as it may be, I believe it’s what’s best for me.
Next week be sure to circle back here as I will be updating our Board make-up and announcements
regarding our Ambassadors.
With Respect,
James Rowten (JR)
