Most of us are trying our hardest to keep everyone safe, says reader

To the Editor:
RE: “Reader upset with actions of cavalier youth during global pandemic”

I would like to address the letter to the editor published June 9, entitled “Reader upset with actions of cavalier youth during global pandemic.”

I am 28 years old. I am considered a youth by many in this community. I am told constantly that my generation does not care about older generations. I am told that I am selfish, uncaring, and callous toward the elderly, at-risk population.

Let me tell you, I am terrified of COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

I have at-risk family members and neighbours. I am stricken with fear when I go to local businesses and people aren’t wearing masks because I know that I can be the carrier who transmits to my loved ones. Every time I leave the house, I know that I can be the one whose actions could make someone I love stop breathing.

I have been wearing a mask. I have hand sanitizer in my car. I have been giving people respectful amounts of space. I have been keeping six feet away. I have seen people of ALL ages not respecting social-distancing. I have had people of ALL ages try to get into my “bubble” without masks. I have seen people of ALL ages not take this seriously enough.

I have also seen people of all ages wearing masks; going into their community with messages of hope and love; taking care of each other. I have spoken to my neighbours more in the past two months than in the past two years. I have never felt more a part of this community, and I have lived here my entire life.

I can only speak to my own experiences and to what I do with my own body, but I take great offence to being branded as a “cavalier youth” because two people were rude in line.

Wear your own mask, wash your hands, don’t touch your face, and walk kindly in this community, knowing most of us are trying our hardest to keep everyone safe.

Liz Coates
Kincardine