Saturday, June 27, 2020

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“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” 

Yes, Jesus taught us this during the Sermon on the Mount, and this moral is likewise a tenet of almost every religion, from Buddhism to Hinduism to Zoroastrianism. We call it “The Golden Rule” because this show of respect for fellow human beings has universally proven its great value since the beginning of civilization.

It’s simply the right thing to do.

In the context of our current pandemic, and because we now have substantial evidence that wearing masks properly does reduce the spread of the virus, why aren’t people following The Golden Rule? Or, more specifically, why aren’t people wearing masks?

I know the answer is complicated. And I know that many authority figures are not setting a good example, to put it politely.

Wearing a mask is a sign of kindness and caring. I wear one in public, and I want all the people I encounter to extend the same courtesy to me, and to everyone.

“What’s that other adage?” asks the she-devil sitting on my shoulder. “What goes around comes around?” I reply. “Yup! They’ll get theirs!” answers that sassy little devil. I have been having way too many conversations with her lately, and believe me, she is pissed.

Today’s drink is my version of a Mezcal Mule.

In a shaker, muddle 3 cucumber slices with 3/4 ounce lime juice. Add 1 1/2 ounces mezcal, 1 1/3 ounces passion fruit juice, and 1/2 ounce honey (or agave syrup if you have it). Add ice and shake. Strain into a copper mug. Top with 1 1/2 ounces ginger beer, add fresh ice, stir, and garnish with a cucumber slice and a pinch of chili powder, if desired.