No really, I don’t. And most likely it is a result of some very effective, albeit overzealous, Zycam swabs I used once for a cold during college. Much of my sense of smell was obliterated. After college I moved to the country in Arkansas and finally lived a dream of a home in the woods…only to be unable to smell the trees.
But it depends, it’s a blessing and a curse. For example, it was a blessing last Saturday when, in a thoroughly well-used port-a-potty, I smelled nothing. It was not such a blessing in my kitchen that night, when my toast burned to a crisp as I stood two feet away. I noticed nothing until I turned to see it pop up, black as coal, a few discouraged-looking plumes of smoke issuing from the slots.
When confronted with flowers, I won’t get a whiff unless my face is an inch away and I take a good deep sniff. At that point something faintly floral makes it’s way inside and applies for recognition as a beautiful fragrance. Unfortunately it is often lost in translation.
It’s also difficult to pick up the full flavor of food. Again, with deep and fast inhale while I chew, the flavor will hit momentarily and remind me what it’s supposed to taste like.
There are many unpleasant smells I get right away, of course. Popcorn, skunks, feta cheese, etc.
But hey, I can’t complain! Of all the senses with which to have trouble, this is by far the best. I am so grateful to still be able to see amazing things and read, hear music and the voices of people I love, and feel the soft skin of my friends’ babies. God is good =)
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