The Current?... Like a wave?...

One Sunday, I witnessed something odd.  It was an extremely hot day (like almost every summer day in Romania).  I was sitting in church, and the chapel was even hotter than it was outside.  Because of this, a member of the branch I was attending went and opened the window to let some fresh air in.  Makes sense, right?  As soon as he opened the window, an older woman in the branch jumped out of her chair, ran to the open door located across the room from the window, and slammed it shut.  Keep in mind this was in the middle of church.  I was so confused.  I had no clue why this had just occurred, and then I remembered something I had been taught in the study abroad prep course that I was required to take...  The current...

Many Romanians believe in something called "the current."  This occurs when there is any type of cross breeze in a room because of two open doors or windows.  This also occurs when there is a strong breeze outside.  Romanians believe that this breeze will get into your head and make you sick.  Because of this, you cannot open any windows or doors unless you are sure that it will be the only one open in the room.  Also because of this current, you will see people wearing scarves over their heads if it is a windy day.

Many of the younger generation do not believe as strongly in the current, but they still believe in it to some extent.  The people that believe strongly in the current are the older ladies that lived during communism.  It is an interesting phenomenon to witness.  I saw people running to close a door or a window at least once a week.  So many people believe in the current.  Is there some truth to it?  I guess you'll have to decide for yourself...