Letter to the editor: Sacrifice or selfishness

From the time that America entered World War II until its end almost four years later, approximately 407,000 Americans made the ultimate sacrifice. They gave their lives in order to defeat the Axis enemies. While the fighting raged overseas, Americans back home also were asked to sacrifice. Cars and gasoline were rationed. Even household staples including meat and dairy were rationed. Yes, sacrifices were made.

Today, we face another enemy. A different kind, an invisible one. Covid-19. In the past seven months, this enemy has claimed approximately 138,000 American lives. That is 34% of the American lives that were lost in World War II. The projections are that 200,000 lives may be lost by this Christmas. So in less than one year covid-19 will have claimed half as many American lives as were lost in the four years of World War II.

Now the ask is to wear a mask and social distance. Are these really sacrifices? Or have we just become so selfish that we place our wants over the good of others? If we want a return to normal, the path to victory seems clear: masks, social distance and washing of hands. Is it really that great of a sacrifice?

Kurt Karafinski

Shaler