When we left Nashville last month, it was 98 degrees F and almost 50% humidity.
Even for the three years I lived in Hawaii, even when I’ve been surrounded by metal and concrete in Los Angeles, even standing in the direct sun amongst the arid foothills of the Sierra Nevadas during a drought, I have never been so hot in my life. There was a waterfall of sweat down my spine. My clothes stuck to me after being outside for ten minutes. I slathered on sunscreen constantly. All I wanted was cold water, a cold shower, and cold air conditioning.
And I was able to have as much cold water as I wanted. Everywhere had air conditioning, all I had to do was step inside. I could take as many cold showers as I wanted. I got to get a good night’s rest every night in a soft bed and a temperature controlled room, away from biting bugs.
I’ve been thinking about what it must have been like 160 years ago, when there was no air conditioning. And there was no sunscreen.
What would have happened to me if I couldn’t go inside? If I couldn’t have a big glass of ice water or get in a cool bath? And, if I also had to work hard labor, every day, seven days a week, sixteen hours a day, in the direct sun and intense humidity? Without proper nutrition or medical attention? And sleep in a cramped, dirty space with poor airflow that did not cool down to give me any respite from the relentless heat?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot. I don’t think I’m going to stop thinking about it any time soon.
—emily duchaine
Flommist Emily Duchaine lives in the Pacific Northwest. She likes to drink mead, learn about sharks, and listen to the Talking Heads. She pretends to be a professional businesswoman most days. Copyright © 2019 Emily Duchaine.
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