One of the primary principles of etiquette is to be respectful and considerate of another’s right to choose what he believes best for himself, though we might not agree that the choice is wise.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a polarization of ideas regarding how best to manage the threat, and a prime example, as well as the source of many news-making disagreements would be the issue of wearing masks.
While there are many reasons why people choose to wear or not wear face coverings, remaining calm when we disagree is a display of proper etiquette and empathy. Mask-wearing or not, we should all be more recognizably respectful to others.
For non-wearers:
• Limit small talk in public as much as possible, being mindful that others may be uncomfortable that you are not wearing a mask.
• Avoid behavior that might appear to be flaunting your choice.
• Observe a business establishment’s requirement to wear a mask from start to finish while inside their premises.
For wearers:
• Avoid scolding or shaming others.
• If someone without a mask stands too close, simply step back.
• If a person without a mask approaches to speak to you, be sure to maintain the correct social distance from them or if you are unwilling to participate in the conversation, simply point to your mask and say, “I’m sorry, it’s a little difficult to speak right now.”
Keep staying safe!
