Ground report. When I arrived at the local grocery store in my blue area, I noticed that they replaced their massive mask signage with a tiny printout saying vaccinated people don’t need masks. Hmmm. Not really sure what to expect, I cautiously covered my face with a scarf and went inside. 100% mask compliance from all the customers. I started fuming while shopping for produce, feeling mad and disgusted that this mask garbage is never going to end. By the time I was done picking out onions, I said, “This is stupid” and took off my scarf. I finished my shopping trip and checked out with my face uncovered. I was literally the only one in the store uncovered. Nobody said a word about it.

For those out there in blue areas where mask compliance is still high despite the new rules, I urge you to take the mask off. Somebody has to break the ice. Somebody has to be the first to do it. The people who are hesitant and unsure about the vague mask rules are never going to take the masks off until they see others do it first. I know it can be intimidating, but it’s not getting better until we—the awake—lead by example.