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Pandemic Reflections
Donut Diplomacy
How I avoided a Covid mask conflict early in the pandemic
Donuts rank high amongst my favorite foods. They remind me of childhood, my mother and beach vacations. They conjure the best gastric-based nostalgia. They are more feeling than food for me. I avoided eating them for years because I knew they held no nutritional value and were just sugar circles, but I am older now, and have learned to care about that less, so very occasionally, I eat donuts. But I only opt for the best. I would never pop one from that ubiquitous New England donut chain in my face. I require my treats to be fully dipped, decorated and fresh.
So last spring, after a long walk in a neighboring state, I decided to go to a local place I know that has donuts that meet all my standards. Like many others, I was seeking pandemic comfort food. I initially hesitated because I hesitate before going anywhere there may be an unknown amount of unknown people grouped up. But as I approached, I saw a small, distanced file of masked faces and thought I’d give it a try.
I lined up and saw a hand written sign posted on the bakery door that incited a flutter of anxiety: “PLEASE Masks Recommended.” Another sign said: “NO More Than Three Customers At A Time.” Also understanding that the word choice of “recommended”…
