When Nature Calls...

I walk to the University every day. I am very lucky because I walk along the Rio Tomebamba where I receive a plethora of different sensory experiences. I hear my own harmonious symphony with sounds from the river, the birds, and the typical Ecuadorian music in the distance; I experience contrasting senses as the cool breeze and warmth from the sun meet my face; and I am able to observe some of the most beautiful sights Cuenca has to offer, with views of the flowing river, the European appearance and architecture, and the odd, yet unique encounters with men urinating next to trees every single day of the week.

Yes. It’s true. I see men peeing along side of the river at least three or four times a day. In all honesty it’s quite an interesting social norm that I’ve discovered here in South America. Ecuadorian men live and die by the phrase “When nature calls…” Now I have no problem dropping trow (trousers) at soccer practice, at a park, or even on my walk home; but this blogger prefers to be discreet when it comes to his own bodily functions (besides the bus incident that I was so harshly criticized for); I would go off in to a forest or find a tree that hides my entire body, and if no other options use the soccer pee. But I don’t think the word "discreet" has a translation in Spanish. Homeless and Business men alike, have no problem making a detour to (literally) five steps off the sidewalk and watering the grass. It’s strange to us Americans, but think about the amount of confidence it must take to pull out your (insert derogatory nickname or medical term here), and start urinating in the middle of a busy city while buses, people, and policemen stride by with no hesitation! Often times, when confronted with this awkward situation, I look around at other people’s faces. There is no look of disgust, not even a glance at this (what would be considered in the U.S. as an) inappropriate action.

Because it is social accepted here, the question that must be asked, is whether or not it would be acceptable for a foreigner, an American to partake in this indolent action?

Comments?