For the past few days, I have noticed that some of my students wear masks. According to some explanation, it was done during haze period. More so, it was also said that wearing such is actually a sign of being socially responsible for it can stop the spread of diseases.

How about us? Are we also getting sick? I am sure we are not exempted to this. However, aside from finding a way to cure our sickness, do we also wear mask? Are we also responsible enough not to spread the virus?

What is a virus? Based from the definition provided in the dictionary, it pertains to an infection composed of a nucleic acid molecule in a protein coat and is capable of multiplying within the living cells of a host.

Thus, virus is detrimental and can easily be transmitted from one person to another. With that, I think it also resembles gossip or rumor for it simply transports from one host to another. How does it happen? It occurs when a person is vulnerable; not strong enough to process in his system the virus received. In such case, there is a high possibility that he won’t be able to take it; hence, diffuse the virus. In connection, according to an article, people do this for it also creates bond through forming an “us” versus “them” force. Therefore, people prone in doing this are individuals who need attention.

Generally, gossip goes rampant in just about any workplace. To add, it has an invisible power that tends to control people’s perception toward others. In fact, it is one of the reasons why people develop a feeling of fear to speak.

As a teacher, I think we can end this by knowing the difference between venting and gossiping. Let us also be aware of our own baggage. As soon as we realized and discovered that we are infected, let us make and take immediate and necessary actions: wear mask.

We know ourselves than anybody else. We can tell if we can take something or not. We can feel if we can process things out or not. Our knowledge to those simple details can help us save ourselves from infecting others and at the same time cure ourselves. Remember, if our students can be socially responsible, why can’t we?

Sometimes, it is better not to hear anything. Unfortunately, the field we are in requires communication that may make or break not only us but the institution itself. Henceforth, let us end our complacency. Let’s wear our mask responsibly. It is better to shut ourselves from the world sometimes than destroy the place where we stay. Let us save our workplace from trust erosion.

In silence, let us contemplate. There are times that we can be more productive in our lone moments than establish a bond only to spread virus. Besides, we work here to teach. So far, the best advice is to avoid it. Perceive rumors as viruses. Take a sit and write your frustrations if needed. Consequently, you can separate yourself from the gossip zone and refocus on your role: teach.