They are trying to do it again. This time, the consequences for noncompliance may require a higher level of courage that some possess and many more will not. How many will fall for it again?

The White House recently updated its National COVID-19 Preparedness Plan, and it says: “We look to a future when Americans no longer fear lockdowns, shutdowns, and our kids not going to school. It’s a future when the country relies on the powerful layers of protection we have built and invests in the next generation of tools to stay ahead of this virus.”

Looking back to when most states were facing lockdowns, mask mandates, and school closures, those who were skeptical were not fearful. Those who did not comply the first time were frustrated, and many even angry. Who can blame us? Our livelihoods were put at risk, our children suffered learning loss, our family members were left to die on hospital beds alone, and pregnant women labored by themselves due to hospital protocols only to later find out that it was all unnecessary. Even the masks we were forced to wear were unnecessary.

During the first round of COVID, there was little to no information about COVID. Everyone became vulnerable to governmental tyranny, but this time we know. We also know that a presidential election is near, and to remain in power, the Left will try whatever it needs to. The Left also knows that most complied with its mandates willingly, so why not try it again?

This time around, when the going gets rough, who will stand up and say “No”? The hope is that more will courageously reject what is coming our way. Most red states have laws in place that protect their citizens from draconian mandates, but that won’t stop the Left from imposing its will. In fact, it will be interesting to see how many red states will enforce their laws when the federal government tries to step in.

We are starting to see colleges implementing mask mandates and public schools closing due to illness. It won’t be long before more institutions and businesses do the same.

Truthfully, children cannot afford to lose out on more school. The damage we have done to children partaking in public education will follow them into adulthood. Our economy and middle class cannot afford another round of lockdowns where only the big-box stores come out as winners and where those on government assistance keep the checks coming, while the working class gets labeled as “essential” and “nonessential” again.

Don’t fall for it again. Don’t give up your liberties again. Don’t sacrifice your child’s well-being again. And if you do fall for it again, as the South likes to say, “Bless your heart.”