Each time we had a GAPP meeting, there was always a so called "Elephant in the Room." Something that everyone knew about, but wouldn't address it. This was a topic that only applied to our trip to Iceland: swimming. None of us wanted to think about it, much less talk about it in a large group. If you're not already informed, swimming in Iceland meant stepping out of our comfort zone. To be allowed in the pools, one must shower naked in the large public washroom with an attendant present to assure that everyone washes the correct areas, the correct ways. For most of us, it took months to convince ourselves that swimming would be worth it. Up until the first toe touched the water, we were still unsure, but only then did we come to the realization that the process we went through was more than worth it. The water felt amazing, the environment was very calming, and we got to spend time and bond with each other, some of us who barely knew each other prior to the trip. Having doubts about stripping down, in a new place, with strangers all around speaking a foreign language, is completely normal. Although this is true, life is all about taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. So if you ever find yourself in Iceland, take a leap and go swimming because as the saying says, "When in Iceland, do as the Icelanders do."
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