I went to the supermarket. On my way to get there, I saw most of the people wearing masks. And what captured my attention more is what the masks took away. I saw no expression, no faces, happiness or sadness, but only individuals that can’t be read. I heard the workers welcoming people to the store but I couldn’t see if they really meant it.
We all, and in all time, praise people to be as much open and truthful as possible. We praise individuals who look someone in the eye and who expose themselves and allow themselves to be read.
We try often to decode people by the way they use body language. We admire women with the right amount of makeup; men with beards trimmed perfectly.
“Is she frustrated? Is he mad? Are they surprised?” I couldn’t tell.
We’ve got masks blocking not just the virus but the ability to be perceived by on another.
What about the deaf people that can only communicate by reading lips? Is that a concern for the National Association of Deaf?
The psychological and sociological aspects need to be taken in context.
Part of the solution could be making transparent masks that could tremendously help the deaf community and recreate a bond.
Create glass shield around workers to protect them and us. And long term, find the vaccine that will cure more than the virus but also the almost near-death of the way we communicate with and see each other.
Clecio Almeida
Beverly