I grew up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At the time, here in the U.S., the church’s program for boys was the Boy Scouts of America. I enjoyed my time as a scout. I learned valuable lessons – lessons that jived well with what I was taught at home, at school, and at church. I learned the value of being a good citizen. I learned about respecting leaders, helping others, and working together.

Everything I learned as a scout, as a member of the church, and in school encourages me to follow the health guidelines laid out by thoughtful doctors and scientists. So, I’m wearing masks when I go grocery shopping. I do my best to maintain distance from others outside my household. And I’m doing what I can to assist those who have been hurt economically and medically by this pandemic.

Are there alternate viewpoints out there? Yes. But the advice from compotent health professionals is to wear them.

Have the recommendations changed? Yes, because each day we learn more.

We will get through this pandemic better if we are more like a boy scout: loyal, obedient, and clean. If there is conflicting government guidance, I would suggest following the most recent and most local guidance. And remember when discussing these things to be friendly, courteous, and kind.