I used to tell myself that I had a very deep respect for the ocean. It was as if I had a better understanding of it's true power. Well, as it turns out, I'm just a big pussy.
I don't have respect for the ocean, I'm afraid of it! Although I do think that it's a pretty fine line between the two. Actually, it's a fine line between respect, fear, and stupidly secure.
Mr. Rant walks the line of respect and stupidly secure. I've always been amazed by this. While I love to go in for a dip and float a bit in some calm water, I'm getting in and out if big waves are involved.
The fish I married is the opposite. He goes straight in, dives under, and tries to ride the waves. Got to love a fish who still doesn't quite manage to ride 'em. Regardless, he's as comfortable in the water as he is sporting the tiny Brazilian speedo on the sand.
I, on the other hand, need him to coach me out when there are big waves. On those days I usually wait until my bladder is going to burst and I have no other choice but to go into the water. I'm sure Yemanjá, the goddess of the ocean, loves that. Actually, I think she may get a bit of perverse pleasure busting out a surprise wave and making me pee a bit before planned. We women are perverse like that.
But the longer I live in Rio de Janeiro, the more comfortable I get with the ocean. It may have something to do with the 2 or 3 beers I have while on the beach or just the consistent exposure to my friend the ocean. Either way, I'm not having a quasi-panic attack when I see a huge wage coming! I just take my breath and dive down deep.
It really was only a matter of time as beach public bathrooms have only just gotten enter-able and it's hotter than a witch's swamp-ass here in the summer! No choice but to dive in and hope for the best.
How about you? Are you an ocean swimmer? Do you just hang out on the beach and make sure you are sitting near a shower? And how do you feel about all of those like me who pee in the ocean? I am nasty or just following the trend?
I totally have some fear of the ocean - although really, I can't even tell you the last time I was near it... oh wait! yes I can! our cruise in Feb. 2008 - we cruised and did some snorkeling in the ocean :) soooo yeah. other than that though, I go out, maybe play in the waves a bit - but only to where I can comfortably touch the bottom and still have my head above water!
ReplyDeleteoh, and I try NOT to think about all the people peeing in the ocean, including myself, because that just seems wrong... ick. I think I need a shower...