Bubble Life

Today I had one of those moments when I question what I’m doing here. At dinner we were having a conversation about one of our housemate’s friends who accused us of living in a bubble and not being a part of real life. Putting aside the fact that those are rather vague and clearly meant to agitate, I think the friend has a point. Initially, I applied for JVC because I didn’t know what else to do. However, in the end I made a very conscious decision to commit to JVC (more on that whole story another time). My reasons for this were: a profound interest in Ignatian spirituality, a deep desire to serve and learn about/from the poor, and a need to experience non-Minnesota life. These and most of the other reasons out there for doing JVC are admirable, but there is considerable subtext that isn’t often acknowledged. 

All JVs come from a place of relatively high privilege. Most, if not all of us, have received stellar education through college. Most have a wonderful support group made up of family and/or close friends. Perhaps most importantly, we can afford to not make money for a year. This privilege continues in JVC. Sure, we’re living on a modest budget, but that certainly doesn’t mean we’ve removed ourselves from privilege. If anything, it reinforces it. If we happen to spend too much on groceries or our utilities bill is more than expected and our budget can’t afford it, JVC picks up the overdraft. Which is not to mention that our rent is significantly reduced thanks to the Jesuit community here. Also, we have special status in the hearts of the KC Former Jesuit Volunteers (FJVs), which results in bountiful gifts socially, spiritually and financially. For example, we needed transportation, so an incredibly generous family donated a 2007 car to JVC for us (shout out to the Stepps, thank you!). 

I say all these things, not because I’m ungrateful- my community and I have absolutely loved (and needed in some cases) the support and generosity of people here and could not thank them enough for what they’ve done- but to make a point. JVC emphasizes the fact that we are not living in poverty. I would say we do quite well for ourselves. We definitely live in a privileged bubble. Maybe that bubble is necessary though, because otherwise the work we do, in all 4 values, might crush us.