It was a few decades back (probably around 1990) when Fred became a client. After that I represented his son for a time until the son ceased cooperating. I would see the wife now and then where she worked. Then I finally saw Fred’s name and image . . . in his obituary.
To me Fred was a nice guy. He was referred to me by other clients who valued Fred’s friendship. When I saw the obit I felt the internal tug of duty to pay my respects at the wake or funeral home “visitation”. I left my office a few minutes after 5:00 p.m. Through the cold and dark I paced North a block or so to the convenient funeral home location. Fred’s function was the only one taking place. There were fifty or sixty people milling about or seated. The only face I recognized was the face of poor old Fred in his casket. The only face wearing a protective mask was my own. I paid my respects to poor old Fred who had all but wasted away and who looked somehow awkward or ill at ease in the unfamiliar suit adorning his remains. I saw no family members to greet. I saw no book for signing in as a guest. In minutes I was gone. I am good at showing up for such functions but quite bad at staying.
Moreover, I took personal offense that I was the only one there wearing a face mask for my own protection and the protection of others. The environment there was right for one COVID cough to spread for yards and to infect multiple people who were reckless enough to arrive unprotected but otherwise innocent. What the hell, people?! There is moral turpitude in failing to take precautions against a COVID infection. I make an exception for those infected at home. Anyone infected in a public place is to blame almost as much as the infected source.
When will COVID pass into oblivion? Never so long as the great majority of people (like you) feel at liberty to arrive without protection to a crowded indoor space.
The time has come for me to boycott wakes of those unrelated to me. My guess is that I will not be missed.
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