The Truth About the Body and the Blood

A few nights ago, on the telephone, Mom and I were sharing all the latest funny stories about family members. Just silly little things that make you giggle, and love them all the more. She shared a tale of her cousin’s granddaughter, Andrea, who was recently confirmed.

I’m not completely familiar with this practice, but as I understand it, Andrea was required to attend several classes in preparation for her confirmation. After one such class, grandma came to pick Andrea up and drive her home. She asked, as many adults do, what Andrea was learning in class. Andrea replied in all seriousness that you weren’t supposed to “gulp the blood”, because there are lots of other kids waiting to drink it, and you shouldn’t be greedy. “Oh, and the body tastes gross.”

Grandma, of course, maintained her dignity and her straight face in light of such earnestness – and the moment passed.

Forward to the big day. Andrea looks beautiful in her white dress, and all goes according to plan. Later, when she gets a moment to chat, grandma asks Andrea, “Did you gulp the blood?” In a sober voice, Andrea turns to her grandma and replies, “No. I didn’t drink any. Somebody spit the body in it.”