Bronwyn Sindel, Mullumbimby
I really wish to support Sarah Seaward’s letter (4 August) where she gives thanks for the unmasked folk in our community. She is correct in stating that many of us who don’t wear masks every time we leave our homes do not believe in science – but just what is the truth?
I have a mask, a cloth one, and I have it with me at all times so that I don’t upset anyone who feels insecure around my presence. If they do, I put it on. In Woolies I have it around my neck (have the elastic around my head, not my ears, that’s just too darned uncomfortable) and pull it over the mouth and sometimes even the nose when I feel the time is right.
Like Sarah, I do like to see people’s faces and be able to smile at all and sundry. That aspect of not wearing a mask seems very healthy to me. Breathing one’s own dispelled air seems very unhealthy to me, unless it’s just for a few minutes perhaps.
I love social distancing and have a very limited social life, so I feel very sure that I am not a risk to anyone. One of the big risks of all this masking business is aggression and division. I will wear my mask (currently in the wash) whenever someone I cross paths with requires me to do so, and leave it off at all other times.
In the meantime I am just watching and waiting. I love to feel that I am a mature healthy individual living in a free and open society, with good attitude and positive vibrations. Long may it be so.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
