World Water Day
It can give us life and it can kill us.
Gives us pleasure and it cause fear.
It can be found everywhere and in 20 years half of us may not have enough of it.
More valuable than gold.
People are dying to have it.
We wipe it away.
Clean it up.
We can hold it, yet it can float away.
It can support us, yet it can be lighter than a feather.
Covers 71% of the Earth's surface.
You Need Water
It makes up to 78% of our body. To function properly, the body requires around two litres of water per day to avoid dehydration. It is the most important nutrient to our body. It is rather difficult to drink too much water, but it is dangerous to drink too little. Scientists have estimated that by 2030, in some regions of the world, water demand will exceed supply by 50%.
Water does more than just sustain us. Humans use water for many recreational purposes, as well as for exercising and for sports. Many find the sound and appearance of flowing water to be calming – though it makes me think about going to the bathroom.
Though water can be fun, it can be very dangerous, especially if you are not careful. In the United States, drowning is the second leading cause of death in children 12 and younger.
How Do You Look At Water?
Water can be destructive. Could you imagine seeing a 100 ft wave coming in at you. December 26, 2004 saw many of these waves coming to shore in around the countries of the Indian Ocean. It is estimated that almost 1 million people lost their life because of that Tsunami.
We take water for granted. We pollute it without thinking of the consequences and many of us waste it without thinking of how valuable it is. Humans can live without food for several weeks, but we would be in dire straits without water, even for only a couple a days.
Water
Water can sustain us and it can be fun to play in.
It can be dangerous and kill us.
Provides us with the power to run our appliances.
It is remarkable and simple.
It can be found everywhere and its scarcity can make it more valuable than gold.
What's So Special About March 22nd?
March 22 has been designated World Water Day by the United Nations.
We all need to do more to respect and conserve this valuable resource.
Excerpts taken from my son Tayler's 2010 public speech.
Beverly's Hot Tips for Celebrating World Water Day:
- Plastic water bottles are convenient but a huge waste of resources and pollute our planet. Look for alternatives. Use the water fountain. Take water in a reusable container.
- Turn the water off when brushing your teeth.
- Make sure your taps aren't leaking.
- Look for biodegradable detergents and cleaners.
If you have some strategies to share – comment on this posting!
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