Social responsibility

Now that social distancing is the state-of-the-art inclination which many of us are supporting there are many who take this as an advantage. When I cite advantage, I imply the insolent social distancing, reactions, and expressions that people show.

As it is, we have a delinquency when it comes to getting along with people with various walks of life but one needs to always ensure that when you’re near a stranger you don’t offend the other person. Depending on your culture, you are probably used to greeting someone with a handshake, hug, or nose bump. The rest of us are struggling to navigate how to project ourselves without a touch.  

During my regular run in the open area I see a few passersby who wear the mask when they see the person in front. This is a bad practice. If you’re concerned about your health and safety then you too ensure that you keep the mask on when you are out. Not when you see people who pass by and then remove it. The other person might take it personally and think as if he/is suffering from COVID.  I personally do not support the move of wearing a mask and working out especially when you need to do a few rounds of jog as you need to breathe. The gesture on your face is more important than the ones with your hands. How long are we going to walk around wearing a mask? If you’re wearing it apprehend the importance and need of wearing it.  

If you’re feeling awkward, make a conscious effort to remember to smile, especially if you are a bloke. It’s time we all practice various ways of greetings now that many of us are not handshaking, hugging. With handshakes and even elbow-bumps now off the table, you could try non-contact options such as a thumbs-up, a Namaste-style prayer gesture, or even an ironic jazz hand if you think you can pull it off. As we endeavour to get used to the new in a feeling of social distancing, we need to bear in mind that etiquettes and respect are what make society work.

It’s more of us demonstrating our concern for each other’s health. So, etiquette is a cornerstone of social interaction and what we learn is not the distance that matters. Showing each other, we care respectfully is what brings us closer together. Unfortunately, a lot of people have to still rouse up from their cocoon to learn what this is and how it has to be applied in practical life.  Remember social distancing is not a crime.

Mathew Litty  — By email