Chuck Lahmeyer
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
None of us like staying home; none of us really enjoys wearing a mask. All of us regret that we can no longer safely shake hands of even stand close to someone. But Lois and I are proud to wear our masks and try to observe all social distancing standards. We see it as an act of being good citizens, and we cringe when we see a store full of people not wearing masks, particularly in light of the recent resurgence of the virus.
The state of our nation regarding virus cases is by far the worst in the world. Our American tourists are no longer welcome in Europe, and Europeans will, no doubt, be discouraged from visiting (and spending in) America. A sad state of affairs brought about by our horrible example in containing the virus. As I stated in an earlier letter, this is a national, yea, a world disgrace. The richest, most advanced country on earth can't do any better than this?
D'ya think it has anything to do with our president? Who initially called the pandemic a hoax, a Democrat hoax. 127,000 dead, some hoax! Then he said it would all go away with the onset of spring, some spring! He has done everything he can to ignore, belittle, minimize and ignore the virus and even today refuses to wear a mask. Thousands of his followers considered drinking bleach and other disinfectants at his suggestion. Several had to be treated at poison control centers. Way to go, Donald! Thousands refuse to put on a mask following the example of our president.
Just a few figures to consider: The U.S. has less than 1/20 of the world population, but we have one-fourth of the world's coronavirus cases. That means we are five times greater than the world average. Well, at least we can lead at something. Guess what folks? We can do better.
We can all do better, starting by wearing those masks. No you don't have to worry about it being un-presidential, they are not that uncomfortable and let everyone know you are doing your part. Keep in mind that a mask is not just to protect you but to protect those around you. Please be a good citizen. It's not a political issue, Democrats and Republicans should wear a mask. These days, you really look good wearing one.