I was reading recently an article in the world news that struck me to the core. In North Korea, where peoples’ liberties don’t really exist whatsoever. A sailor out at sea Was listening to a foreign broadcast out of curiosity. Unfortunately for him, a crewmate that heard him turned him into the authorities. The result of that was a firing squad execution in front of other sailors and their officers. It could also result in the death sentence if anyone in the authoritarianism country listens to anything other than state Radio.
And on my favorite network radio channel I heard a German man who was definitely disturbed because of the COVID-19 restrictions placed on him and his fellow Germans. He said that the lockdown is continuing and that people are not allowed to go out without a mask, sing in church or celebrate Christmas at all. No shopping, no gathering and no joy. Furthermore his son was waiting for a bus when a police officer noticed that he wasn’t wearing a mask. That resulted in a €150 fine. He also reflected back on the dictatorship of the 30s and 40s in the country when such liberties were also restricted. He pointed out quite sadly that today’s restrictions somewhat resemble those. In England they have established several zones, with varying degrees of restrictions. The people I have talked to on the radio usually resent those, but have no control over what is required.
Certainly we Americans are facing stricter times. Some states require facemasks on public property, they also limit gatherings, and break up possible super spreader parties. But the holiday shopping season has continued unabated and people are still planning to invite close family members to their gatherings.
While most stores require masks to be worn, many customers disregard that and even threaten or harm the poor employees that ask them to do so. I have not personally heard of any fines being levied against people that disregard the mask rule. They claim it as a right for a person’s choice, but that choice may not only harm themselves but others, keeping the virus alive.
As Americans, we have certain rights passed down by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. I don’t believe that people should be locked down in England or fined in Europe for not wearing a mask,
But I do believe it should be our responsibility for protecting our families and the public from COVID-19.
Happy new year!