Theology 2 in Venezuela #9

(By Greg Parrott)

Die XXIII Iulii, Anno Domini 2007
Festum S. Iacobi, Apostoli

Well, it has been over a week now in Venezuela and I'm not quite yet getting used to the cold showers in the morning. I think I can say I've adapted, but having gotten used to it? I'm not quite sure. (Might I also mention, however, that Father Laird did not pass up the opportunity of mentioning to us that he thinks some seminaries still recommend that their seminarians take cold showers.) Of course, my own method of adapting has been influenced by my previous life lessons as a lifeguard/WSI (Water Safety Instructor). Your body best adapts to a different temperature water by getting your head wet. It's far easier to get used to a cold pool if you just put your head under and stay under for a good long breath right away. So too with my showers here. Then, it's just a matter of forcing myself to put up with the rest of the shower until finished. Perhaps some things in life just are not meant to be gotten used to--for they somehow necessarily clash with that which is proper, in accordance with nature ("connatural"), fitting.

For example, poverty--a topic that has been thrust upon my consciousness even more intensely here. It is something to which a person can somewhat adapt. However, I really question whether one can get used to being poor. Though much of the routine may be the same, each day presents its own struggles, each day the body forces into the consciousness that not all of its necessities are being met, each day the surroundings of the heat, bloating from malnutrition, lack of education, near defenselessness and constant risk of violence, inability to find employment, etc... thrust upon one's consciousness the same fact: poverty is not fitting to a person. Perhaps a more likely thought for the one who lives in poverty, "This just isn't right." "I wish I didn't have to live like this."

And so cold showers it is for the time being. Consequently, I have decided that one of the first things I will do upon returning to the States is take a nice hot shower.