I know it has been a while since I posted. The thing is, I have about 4-5 posts in my head, but each time I want to share something, I end up spending my time processing about everything that is happening around me, so please excuse me for the lag in posts.
I wanted to talk about an important thing here on the island: Water.
I am on an island. Water surrounds us, it’s everywhere. But two weeks ago, when Judy and I had the opportunity to take some time out and take a little day sailing trip down the coast for some relaxation and volcano-gazing, I noted to the person booking our trip that it was raining.
“Ugh,” I groaned, “It’s raining again.” Mistaking me for a tourist, the booking agent said, “Yes, well, we love when it rains here. We had an awful drought this year. We don’t complain about the rain.” Looking sheepish, I muttered, “Oh yeah, heard about that … sorry, yes … of course. Rain is a good thing!” The “booking agent just grinned at me and said, “I understand, you are on vacation.”
Ok, then I felt horrible. I mean, I’m not on vacation, I’m not a tourist. I am in a beautiful tourist destination, trying to do some public service.
So I have been diligent in conserving water here. I shut the faucet down quickly; I take uber quick showers. I am working on it. Because she was right, water is vital here. When it rains, the people rejoice.
In February 2010, a water emergency was declared in St. Lucia due to the water crisis. Water restrictions and possible fines were imposed upon the population. According to my supervisor, the crisis didn’t end until right before we arrived, in late April. Two months of severe water restrictions because of rain shortage.
As I learn more about climate change, I recognize the need for our Entertainment – Education program here. Our program will educate and promote positive change and environmental respect throughout the region. I now gladly walk in the rain here because I know it represents a positive future to the people.
Besides, my job is to help preserve this beauty. It’s a great place to be: Surrounded and blessed by water.
Agreed! If a picture tells a 1000 words then the most important of them would probably be -- water is extremely important to our vitality and livelihood! Well done, friend.
ReplyDeletevery nice picture of the sky!
ReplyDeleteOh rain. It rains here too. And I guess Australia is an island as well. We're practically in the same place.
ReplyDeleteRebecca - i know. We ARE basically on the same island. So many things that are similar. Ramping up my posts just for you. :)
ReplyDeleteIt has rained quite a bit here an Shanghai as well! I've been missing your blogs! Now that I'm able to get to the blogs regularly... I'm addicted!
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