I constantly organize with those who reject forced policies, so I'm not sure I understand your point. I do empathize with those who must wear masks because their bosses force them or because they have to obey to board a plane or visit a hospital. The essay is about building the morale of people who stand against creeping totalitarianism.

I think what you are reluctant to look at here is your own role as a conformist and how that conformity firms up the narrative of mask mandates. This happens whether you like it or not. I don't hate you in the slightest for wearing a mask, just as I don't hate people for eating eggs, cheese, and meat. I just wish you wouldn't; you don't have to.