Now that we are moving away from the pandemic and it’s, hopefully, in the rear-view mirror, we’re all looking forward to a return of normalcy. There is absolutely no doubt the shutdown changed the way we behave as a society. However, it seems we have yet to return to a place of mutual respect and kindness where individuals stay in their own lane. In other words, we all need to mind our own business.
I’ve noticed that it’s now somehow become acceptable to ask complete strangers about their personal medical information in the name of supposed “public safety”. And, whether someone chooses to wear one or not, “mask shaming” has become commonplace. As millions of Americans get vaccinated and mask mandates are lifted, wearing a mask is now also sometimes viewed as a marker that someone didn’t get the vaccine. The shame and blame is simply shifting depending on personal opinions, not facts.
Frankly, it’s none of my business whether or not a complete stranger got the COVID vaccination. It’s none of yours whether or not I did as well. And, in the same way that it would be considered rude to ask about a medical condition without invitation, it’s also unacceptable to ask someone to share COVID-related medical information without prompting.
Unfortunately, I’ve seen virtue signaling abound on this issue. People say they have a right to know whether you are vaccinated or not because the pandemic has the potential to affect everyone’s health. No, they don’t. No one has a right to our private medical history beyond what we share. And if airlines, retail outlets and private companies choose to impose additional restrictions on their customers, that’s entirely up to them. Consumers also have the right to make alternative choices if they’re not comfortable with a company’s rules. However, oftentimes, instead of either following the rules or going elsewhere, individuals insist on not complying and causing a scene. Regardless, neither corporations nor individuals have the “right” to know anything you don’t choose to share.
It is an individual’s personal responsibility to take care of themselves, and their families. Part of that responsibility is making good decisions regarding your health. For example, if you have a cold, staying home has always been a good idea, both for your own sake and so you don’t infect anyone else. Being considerate of others isn’t a novel idea but it seems to have gone out the window in the past year and a half. This consideration has become even more lost in our current political climate.
Call to Action: Practice the “Golden Rule” (Luke 6:31). Make wise choices, be considerate and stay in your own lane. It’s time we all calm down, show a little compassion and exercise kindness. After all, we don’t know what others are going through and, frankly, its none of our business.
By Whose Authority?
For more information on my Commentary and to see some of my backup research, or if you wonder why I take the position I take, go to www.LyleBrennan.com.
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) “If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”