Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shortening and sugars and blend with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the salt, vanilla, and baking soda. While beating at low speed, slowly add the flour. Then add the water. Mix thoroughly. Stir in the chocolate chips. Form the cookies by breaking off bits of dough and patting them out with your fingers into 2-inch rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Place the cookies on ungreased cookie sheets and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown on the top and around the edges.