Have you considered that there's another aspect to this whole mask insanity besides the typical theater and virtue signalling you already suspect or understand?

Let me tell you about an exchange I had in email just today with someone who's a known published author and who has a good newsletter comprised of astute book reviews. That's true, in spite of his behavior, and I'll continue to browse his book reviews when they come out. I'm an adult with a brain, that's why. Moreover, I don't, without hesitancy, shut out people I may otherwise have a level of disdain for, provided they offer me something of value in spite of what it is that rubs me the wrong way.

It's called growing up. Everyone is supposed to do it. Try it if you haven't.

So, the Ryan Holiday had had a dream to start an Indy bookstore and by God he's done it and by the photos, it looks to be a perfect place. It's called The Painted Porch in Bastrop, TX.

I'd love a visit. Unfortunately, at least for now, I can't. It's not the fact that I live in Thailand and not in Texas that would necessarily prevent it. It's because I'm a bad person.

Now, he's all big on Stoicism and has written books on it, and he's prone to making lists and principles. The following exchange will demonstrate how faux and what a poseur he is in that regard. Woke trumps all.

Our store The Painted Porch is now open on Main St in Bastrop, Texas and doing great. The obstacle was more than the way—it's been an incredibly rewarding (although deeply challenging) experience. All are welcome (masked and preferably vaxxed!) and you can also support the store here with the recommendations at the top. Just remember, we're small and just getting going…be kind.

I've never corresponded with the gentleman prior, even though I've subscribed and have usually browsed his newsletter for a few years, upon the recommendation of another friend. I hit reply and popped off a quickie.

"All are welcome (masked and preferably vaxxed!)”

That actually means: All are NOT welcome.

I got an equally quickie reply.

Correct--we don't welcome people who can't muster even the most basic regard for other humans.

So the mask comes off, doesn't it? It reminded me of news I was seeing at the same time where Biden's press secretary admits that Creepy, Senile, Child Sniffing Joe was wearing his mask during a Zoom call with bunches of other world leaders—all unmasked—to "SEND A MESSAGE!!!"

Of course I pounced.