ArcaMax

In addition to the real and practical medical reasons for masking, it’s also a free country, folks!

If Kim Kardashian can wear a nude bodysuit to the store (and more power to her, by the way), I can wear a mask on a plane.

At this year’s Academy Awards ceremony, actress Jessica Chastain (who won the Best Actress award last year) was seen wearing a mask. Her reason? She is currently appearing on Broadway, and she doesn’t want to get sick! (Masks don’t only help to protect against the virus causing Covid, but help to protect against other airborne viruses.)

There was an outpouring of support on social media for this artist’s choice, with many people who still need to mask consistently noting that her example made them feel less alone. I wish the same for you.

Dear Amy: I have a niece, “Jane,” whom I love and feel very connected to. I’ve been very supportive – practically, emotionally, and financially.

Around five years ago, Jane reached out to me with an emergency need for several thousand dollars. I didn’t hesitate to give it to her, and she was extremely grateful.

Over the years I’ve given her smaller sums (without her asking), when I’ve had the sense that she was financially on the edge – the pandemic really interrupted her progress.

Again, she has always been very grateful.

For a variety of reasons, I’ve decided not to continue to do this. First of all, I know she can make it on her own. I also recognize that she is making choices that keep her lifestyle where it is. I know that if she wanted to live in a higher income bracket, she is perfectly capable of getting herself there.

Well, just as I’d decided this, she asked for financial help for the down payment on a house. I fully support home ownership for her and know she can handle it, responsibly.

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