Here's the Thing About Masks...

Here's the thing about masks...

Masks are efficient.

They conceal the granola bar piece stuck in your teeth from the rushed on-the-go breakfast. 

They cover up neglected chapped lips and diffuse coffee breath. 

They serve as a hands-free tissue, catching tears as they flow down your face.

They do all this while also protecting.

They defend those with compromised immune systems, like the loved one for which your tears flow. 

They are the daily personal protective gear for many hard-working professionals, like those who care for your loved one. 

These masks provide a barrier that promotes health and wellness. And fresher breath.

Then there are those masks that provide a barrier that promotes disease and distress.

Those masks hide the truth and cover up real feelings and emotions. 

They camouflage gritty, messy vulnerability and masquerade it as something stronger and shinier.

They protect fear; guarding against the opinions of others, the rejection by others, the chance of burden on others, and the risk of being known by others. 

They pretend to shield hearts from pain, but really just protect pride. Because the mask itself is wearing a mask.

But here’s the thing about masks…

They can be removed. 

They can be released, revealing raw authenticity that is far lighter than the weight of any disguise.

They can be pulled down to expose our true flawed selves and messy lives, bringing contagious healing. Because the truth is, it’s the flaws and the mess that are used for good. 

They can be tossed, making room for so much more - like those people who will always be there to lovingly point out the granola stuck in our teeth while offering a tissue and a shoulder to cry on. 

Because connection is the protection our hearts truly need.

Copyright © 2025, All rights reserved.