Gratitude, responsibility and freedom

I read so much about the people who are afraid of the COVID-19 vaccine or those who have politicized the shot and I feel sorrow —for them and for all of us.



My wife and I by the end of February had our two COVID-19 vaccinations. The shots didn’t hurt and only my wife had one noticeable reaction to one shot, which passed. 

We are both so happy because there are four other friend couples who have had their shots as well and it is so nice being able to sit in their houses or ours and be normal again, without masks. My wife’s friends mostly all have been vaccinated. Our 30-something-nephew and his friend have been vaccinated. We all feel now very safe with each other.



And the other day I went for a haircut, knowing the barber had had her shot as well. We were even able to hug without fear. Another customer came into the shop while I was there, a local businessman of 40 years. He had had the shots as well. Again, we were the only three in the shop and we felt safe talking and laughing. 



Finally, it is extremely nice knowing now that when we go to the stores (even those stores that still allow mask-less patrons) we are protected against severe illness should one of the mask-less be an asymptomatic carrier. And, if we are an asymptomatic carrier, by wearing a mask, we are caring for and protecting our fellow citizens. 



It’s a joy to feel more freedom. With responsibility comes freedom.

STEPHEN DRINKARD

Sandpoint