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By Park Gi-hyun
"The first step is always the hardest." The way we wear face masks today reminds me of this proverb. It has been weeks since the indoor mask mandate was lifted in Korea except for certain high-risk places. And recently, on Feb. 17, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said that Korea may completely lift the indoor mask mandate earlier than forecast, as in May, if the downward trend of COVID-19 infections and the number of gravely ill patients continues. Nevertheless, masks have become an essential item for us.
After some three years, some people jest that going outside without a mask gives them a feeling of being naked. Personally, I couldn't agree more. I once shamefully covered my mouth when I found myself not wearing a mask. I am certain that many people would have a similar experience. Although we were frustrated by the nationwide mask mandate in the beginning, few grumble about wearing a mask these days as humans are such a clever and adaptive species.
As the world puts aside masks gradually, I slowly began to imagine a day without a mask, expecting I would become so appreciative and overwhelmed if I could go inside a building with a "naked" face.
I thought the whole world would be different once the mandate was lifted. However, my expectation was completely wrong. Only a handful of people have abandoned their masks.
Of course, I absolutely agree with wearing a mask due to the fear that viruses are still floating around. It is a precautionary measure taken to ward off contagious diseases.
However, there must be other reasons why we are still adhering to the practice. I asked people around me and questioned myself as to why we are still keeping masks on even though we know we do not have to. It all boils down to our consciousness. We travel with a face mask because we are hyperconscious of others' perceptions. "We should follow the majority" or "I feel wary of becoming an outlier in a group."
As the World Health Organization plans tol discuss whether to end the Public Health Emergency of International Concern in May regarding COVID-19, things may change again soon. And it may bring back a moment that was taken away by the pandemic. I recently visited a store where there were five staff members. The sole unmasked staff member greeted me with a big smile on her face that gave me such a great feeling. I felt really welcome seeing a smile on her face ― a dazzling smile that I have not encountered over the last three years. An unfortunate consequence of COVID-19! It was such a strikingly awesome experience.
Let our actions not be shaped by others' perceptions. As the old saying goes, "The first step is always the hardest." It's not easy to break an old habit at first. Yet, if you take the first step, then the next step will come more easily and with less difficulty.
Unquestionably, masks are still beneficial for some reasons and for some people. I totally agree with the advantage of keeping masks on. But, if you are okay with getting rid of your mask and attempting to be more independent, I suggest you show your lovely face again and greet others with your charming smile. Smiling enhances positive emotions for others and you. Your genuine smile has more power than you believe. Smiling is conducive to making people feel welcomed, satisfied and happier. Today, I hope I can give a big smile to people around me.
The writer (faith0906@gmail.com) is a freelance English translator based in Korea.
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