All I wanted was a donut and coffee.

It was early Thursday morning…at least early for me. My plan was to get something to eat and do some light reading. No writing or even thinking about writing. Plans change.

I was waiting for the bus to take me to my local grocery store. The woman in the above photo was also waiting. She wasn’t wearing a mask, but since we were outside I didn’t think much of it.

When the bus arrived, she boarded immediately before me. Again, no mask. No biggie. I assume she would put one on when she sat down. You know what happens when you assume.

I saw her reach into her purse. I again assumed she was reaching for a mask. Again with that assumed thing. She pulled out her book and sat back to read.

At that point, I had a decision to make. Do I say anything to her or the bus driver? I decided to let it go….sort of. I did take the above photo, posted it on Facebook and Twitter and I’m writing about it here. Maybe someone who knows her will one of these posts and will tell her. Maybe she’ll see it herself. Not likely, but possible.

Look, the rules of riding public transportation are simple and well-known. If you’re riding a bus, train or airplane, you wear a mask. Pretty easy, right. I understand that people do occasionally accidentally forget their masks. But it doesn’t look like this accidental. I’m not willing to give this the benefit of the doubt.

I admit I haven’t been perfect about this. A few weeks ago, I had a very early appointment with my dermatologist. In a rush to get there by 8 am, I forgot my mask. I did get on the train, but I didn’t flaunt my masklessness like the above person. I pulled my shirt over my mouth and nose. I also sat as far away as possible from other passengers. Yeah, not perfect, but at least I tried.

Sigh…really…all I wanted was a donut and coffee.

Related Post: What’s your excuse for not wearing a mask during the coronavirus pandemic?

Type your email address in the box and click the “create subscription” button. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.