I hate that it's become us vs. them, but that's what it feels like.

As divided as Americans were in 2020 regarding political candidates, BLM, and wearing masks, that trend has continued with the advent of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Personally, I'm not bothered by people having strong feelings about the vaccine, whether it's about getting it or whether it's about avoiding it. What troubles me the most is when people can't disagree respectfully. As strongly as you may feel about it, there is no right or wrong answer here. There are legitimate as well as fallacious arguments on both sides.

The Arguments For

People who are getting the vaccine generally express the desire to protect themselves, their families, and others they come in contact with. These people tend to trust science and are willing to take a little risk. Some people are getting the vaccine because they feel it will help get the nation back to normal, where small businesses can once again thrive and not struggle; where people can gather with friends without fear; and where special events, festivals, and concerts can once again be a way of life.

The Arguments Against

Some folks are hesitant to get the vaccine because it was pushed through very quickly and there hasn't been adequate testing to fully determine possible long-term effects. Some people don't want to be told what to do and don't want to be pressured into getting the vaccine. Others have seen or heard reports of bad reactions to the vaccine, or they have seen warnings from their friends or people in the medical field warning against the vaccine for various reasons.

The People Speak

I already knew there was a great divide when it comes to getting the vaccine, that's nothing new. But, I wanted to hear about the thought process behind the decision to vaccinate or not. The question wasn't so much about whether or not people were getting it, but mostly about why they made their personal decision.

The response was tremendous. People are generally very eager to express their views on matters such as this, and the majority of respondents freely expressed their reason for getting the vaccine or choosing not to. A few folks thought we shouldn't be asking because it's none of our business. Well, I don't think there is anything wrong with asking a question. It's totally up to you whether or not you want to answer it. For those that did, I share some of those responses below.

Grand Junction Speaks Out On Vaccine

To get the COVID-19 vaccine or not to get the vaccine - that is the question. The answer is either yes or no, but the real question is the why. What plays into the decision you have made - or are in the process of making for yourself? Regardless of what the decision was, we wanted to know what folks in western Colorado were thinking and we asked the question on Facebook. Give us your reasons. Well, they did, and here are a few of their responses.

LOOK: Answers to 30 common COVID-19 vaccine questions

While much is still unknown about the coronavirus and the future, what is known is that the currently available vaccines have gone through all three trial phases and are safe and effective. It will be necessary for as many Americans as possible to be vaccinated in order to finally return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy, and hopefully these 30 answers provided here will help readers get vaccinated as soon they are able.

 

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