DISCLAIMER: I am not a medical expert or even have a fully functioning brain. I bought $GME @ $435 and smoke sawdust. I resist forming an opinion on anything until my TV tells me what to think.

TLDR: You will be nervous and stressed, but will rarely be confronted. Be kind, ignore/avoid when able, and be ready to take your business elsewhere. Do not give Karen a viral moment.

I live in a red state that does not have draconian mask laws, but all of the local businesses still have a "mask required" sign on their doors. Everyone wears a mask everywhere I go, except me. I avoid pro-mask businesses like Costco because I know they will force a confrontation (saving a ton of $$$ too).

RELAX: You will feel uncomfortable for a while, waiting for Karen to start screaming at you. This will keep you on edge and under stress for weeks, so get used to it. Keep calm and carry on, because a confrontation rarely happens with men (sadly, women tend to be Karen magnets when alone). It has been months since I wore a mask and I still feel on edge when I enter a new business/place.

BE KIND: When asked to wear a mask, remember that the person asking likely hates wearing one too, but feel it's their job to compel you to comply. Even people who claim masks do not work will wear one to avoid peer pressure. A simple "No Thank You" or a redirect to comment about the weather usually works fine. Be ready to walk away or leave if the situation warrants it. Karen wants to make an example of you, do not give her a viral moment.

SADNESS: You will begin to feel sadness and pity for those around you that continue to wear a mask. I sit in church each Sunday, trying to focus on the Lord, but distracted by the Greek tragedy being played out in front of me. It is worse when you know many profess anti-mask sentiments in private but join the sheeple in public. True sadness will come as you see how conditioned the youth are, wearing their mask to "protect their family". I am sad, just writing this...

JOY: You may not know it, but you are making a difference. One by one, you will see more and more people go maskless and it will bring you a sense of joy. There may be eye contact, a knowing smile, or a head nod in passing. You will begin to regain confidence in your choices and live your life without fear.

I hope this is helpful, but I have to cut it short because my wife just walked into my office naked...got to go!