My Thoughts on the Changing Perspectives of the Mask

By: Rev. Takahiko Hayashi

In the early stages of the Coronavirus pandemic, government health officials urged us not to buy masks. Their reasoning was that these precious resources should be preserved for healthcare workers and that the masks will not prevent you from getting the virus. We were told that even the best mask could not protect you completely.

Fast forward to the present. Now, the CDC is advocating the use of masks for everyone, calling it “one of the most powerful weapons to slow and stop the spread of the virus.”

So, what changed? Was there a colossal improvement in the quality of masks? An uber-N95? No. In fact, even the simplest of masks would do the job.

Then, what changed? Interestingly, it was the perspective of what the mask is intended to accomplish. If the mask is intended to save me from the virus, even the best would not do. But, if the mask is intended to save us from the virus, there is cause for cautious optimism.

The coronavirus pandemic has reminded me of the interrelatedness of who we are as human beings. One little virus in the other side of the world can cause tremendous anguish throughout the world in a matter of a few short months. And yet, a little change in our perspective, from “me” to “us,” can also empower the simplest of mask to become a “powerful weapon” to confront this pandemic.

I feel that so much of God’s gift to us can become powerful ways to bring about the world of Joyous Life if we are able to see them in such light. If it is meant only for “me,” it may never be enough. But if it is meant for “us,” the possibilities are endless.