We certainly attracted some strange looks from passers by- over 20 people walking through the streets of Epping carrying large containers of water. Some stopped to ask what we were doing while others avoided us. Those who asked were very receptive to our answer:
“We’re taking part in a water walk. We are walking in solidarity with people living in the developing world who have to walk long distances to access their daily water supply. By doing this we also want to raise much needed funds for water tanks and bores for them”
As we walked, we talked about times when we were thirsty or were worried about accessing water. Many responded that there was never a time when they ever felt anxiety over water. We really have no concept of what it would be like not to know how or where to get safe clean drinking water. Even our gesture on a cool autumn morning could not possibly put us in the shoes of a mother in South Sudan or PNG who would have to walk over 12 kms in temperatures exceeding 40°, possibly with her baby tied to her back, just to carry back enough water to quench her family’s thirst.
Water is heavy! I managed to carry about 17 litres between my two containers-just. My back and hands were sore and I was so thirsty. My next challenge was to live on the water I brought back for the next 24 hours. – yet as careful as I was with my precious supply, I still ran out by Sunday night night, with only a small amount in a bottle for the next morning. The amount I used in food prep and washing took much of my supply and I heated the last for a ‘bucket shower’ before bed.
In reality, I did not wash clothes, my hair or all the dishes. After carefully washing up one batch, I used my ration to rinse the rest and put in the dishwasher for the next day! All this time the rest of my family were using the normal water supply. I did not carry enough for my family’s daily needs- no where near it – what a challenge! The women that do are strong and resilient and have my complete and total admiration.
Even though I felt my efforts were somewhat meagre, I managed to raise over $450. Thank you so much to those who sponsored me. We are preparing a kit so other groups can do it too! It will be released in May. Stay tuned or contact us on 1300 536 838.
Tags: Lent Event, water walk
