Fr David’s Musings

The message of the masks

Pretty ones, masculine ones, darlick ones, feminine ones, nondescript ones, hospital ones, funny ones, dotty ones, bandana ones. They are prolific and colourful. They are good for us and very good for others.

Yes, it is true that they hide a bit of us and we don’t see everything; but can I put it to you that this has been true well before Monday 3rd of August 2020.

There are parts of us that always lie hidden from others. Things that we consciously choose not to expose to the world. An unfortunate past, a pregnancy, the secret that a friend has shared with us. These are the things that should lie hidden and not be unmasked.

But there are other things that perhaps should come to light and be revealed for the greater good of all. The gift of compassion, a quirky sense of humour, a talent that we seldom use. Tears also come under this very wide heading. Why is it that we feel so embarrassed and apologetic about something that is so very natural, normal, healthy and healing?

Perhaps the message of the masks is to tighten our resolve to keep hidden that which needs to stay hidden and has been entrusted to us as a great privilege. But also to show forth those God given gifts that we are supposed to share, enjoy and reveal to a world that aches to see them. And maybe if, behind the masks we glimpse something of beauty in another, then we ought to be the agent of encouragement. To foster opportunities where that gift might be utilised for the healing and enhancement of all. To draw forth these hidden gifts which are not always obvious. The willing ear, the compassionate heart, the prayer that is offered in secret, the loyalty of friendship. The mask that says ‘I care about your health and I care about you.’