I have spent the last two years living for the health of other people.
I have respectfully lived by health guidelines. I have been double vaccinated, with my third dose on the way. I have socially distanced and self-isolated when needed. I have avoided large gatherings of every kind. I have had extremely minimal in-person contact with family and most friends. I have worn a mask everywhere it has been requested.
And now it is time for a change.
Through the last two years, my mental health has been at the lowest points of my entire life. There has not been a single day gone by that I have not been forced to think about this pandemic. Due to lack of team sports available, recreation centre closures and overall motivation, I have gained 20 pounds. My business has been struggling and the overall stress of the situation is no longer worth the prevention of the illness.
At 34 years old, I need the option to move on, think for myself and make my own decisions. We have all been informed of potential consequences and we all understand “the risk to others.” We have been given the information, over and over again, and it is time to let us live.
If someone else wants to protect themselves through isolation and restricted social interaction, then that is their right. But for anyone who feels the rest of us should continue to live like this for the sake of your health—you are now the one who is selfish.
If other people need their masks, they should put on an N95 and let the rest of us choose. If a business owner wishes to operate their business without a vaccine requirement or a mask mandate, that should be their right—and if someone doesn’t like it, then they do not have to give that establishment their business. If you are against the hosting of an event or the throwing of a party, then don’t attend it.
Give us the information, give us the recommendations and let us think for ourselves. It is no longer fair to require anyone to sacrifice their quality of life for the sake of another person’s length of life. It is my body and it should be my choice. And it is time for me to quit wearing this ****ing mask.
