I don’t often start a column with an apology, but I am sorry, this is not meant to offend or be political. I just speak as a mom and someone who cares, for many seniors in our community.

Recently, myself and many other moms I know sent their children off to college. You might think, well, they didn’t have to go, but we raised them to be adults, have common sense and in some cases, they really are smarter than us????. We trust them to make the best decision for themselves.

I discussed with my son the need to be type A, to be smart and do what is right for himself. He found it interesting that they sent them home when there were 5 cases, yet want them back when there are thousands. I wonder is this where the saying, “From the mouths of babes” comes from? Okay, that one comes from the Bible, Psalm 8:2 to be precise. You know what I mean though.

I don’t understand how the simplicity of wearing a mask is such a source of division? Most of us are not the smartest in the room, but the science shows it makes a difference. If the science shows that you can spread it and have no symptoms, why is that so hard to believe? Why can reasonable people not do it for their fellow citizens?

If you can carry it and not show symptoms, it means you. Why can’t you be there for your fellow man? I know cancer patients afraid to go out because others won’t take it seriously. I know people who haven’t left their homes because they are afraid of you. I respect the right to your opinion, but your choice not to wear a mask is selfish. When someone gets COVID, is it possibly your fault? We don’t know who has it, so couldn’t it be true? I now see it as a mom from 5 hours away from my son who has to consider if he got sick, I may not be allowed to see him ever again.

My son worked for the senior center for the last 6 weeks when we struggled with employees needing time off. He served lunch, he shopped for seniors and delivered food boxes. He spent time in a caring environment with people who always shared kind words. His last day at work, he helped to pack 45 goodie bags for seniors at Sombrillo. The community has donated spare change to help us make morale boosting bags for every senior citizen. He met Kaitlyn Hill, a former Chamisa alum who received the bags and brought them into their quarantine spot.

I know people who have come from out of state and don’t quarantine or wear a mask. Don’t get a test because you don’t feel good and then go out with friends. Please put on a mask and even if we didn’t do it at first, “When you know better, you do better.” –Maya Angelou