Daily Life Blog Post - Insects!

This is the second of many (hopefully) editions featuring aspects of daily life here in Guatemala... in writing these, I hope to share funny things, ironic things, and things I admire and I want to share them not as a form of judgment... in ANY way... but in a form of telling a story... with that being said...  here's information about insects!

 I like to think of myself as an equal opportunity type of person, but I'm beginning to question my adherence to those values.  I'm a big believer that everyone should have access to jobs, education, clean water, healthy food, clean food, and opportunities for fun.  I think that I am called to share my belongings and blessings with those around me.  I think that these are all things that God wants us to do.

But there are somethings I cannot share and some species I cannot share with.

Insects.

This summer, I made a vow that I would allow myself to be afraid of bugs and spiders and all those types of species, just a little bit, so I could get all the fear out of my system before coming to Guatemala.  I thought I did a good job.  I haven't had any instances where I've freaked out about spiders, etc, and I've even been the designated bug killer when necessary, but, it's getting to me.  There are just some bugs I can't handle sharing with any longer...

Take for instance, the little dime sized bugs that live in our sugar and bread bags.  They are gross.  They just walk around in it all day and all night and no one seems to be too interested in fixing that problem except for me.  I'm learning that I'm a bit of a neat freak. 


Then, there is the snail.  He too is gross and every time I think he's dead, he either pulls a resurrection act or his twin brother comes and visits.  He lives in two places 1) on the stairs going to my room and 2) right next to the toilet.  I have seriously thought I killed this thing multiple times.  I have given up.


Then, the nickel-quarter sized multi-legged bugs that enjoy showering with me.  Hey, bugs!  I too am a fan of cleanliness, but let's take our turns in the shower, ok?

And... the fleas - They are small, itchy, and incredibly sneaky.  They have decided to share with me the most intimate surfaces on my body and the ways to get rid of them and not have them come back are at times baffling.

And... finally... the parasites.  Or parasite substances.  They aren't able to be seen by me, nor, evidently, by the hospital's microscope, but they sure are felt by me.  Talk about invasive... and disgusting.


To my future house, housemates, clothing, and abdominal lining: I promise to keep you clean forever.