Combine beans in a large pot of fresh water with garlic and bay leaves. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until beans are tender, about 1 hour.
Soak cornmeal with 3/4 cup water for 2 hours. It will have absorbed the water.
Heat a pot. Add bacon and cook until crispy. Drain excess oil and leave 1 tablespoon in pot. Add onion and saute until onions are softened and turn translucent.
Add kale and saute 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add 6 cups of water, salt, paprika, black pepper and cooked beans. Bring to a boil.
Add shrimp and slowly add cornmeal, stirring constantly, to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to medium low and cook, covered, for 10 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes.
Add parsley and stir to combine. Turn off heat. Leave for 10 minutes before serving. It will thicken more as it cools.
Notes
Canned beans can also be used and eliminate cooking beans.