When the Well is Dry ...

In our continued attention to the issue of consumption it is important to take a look at water. Something we hear a lot about, especially here in California.

This begs the question, how important is water really?

Well, let’s take a look at a few facts:

• – Two-thirds of our planet’s surface is covered by it and it makes up two-thirds of the human body.
• – Water replenishes the land and human body with nutrients while carrying away harmful materials.
• – On average we can survive 3 weeks without food, but only 3 days without water.
• – With the exception of the air we breath, water is the most important component to life on earth.

In short, it is vital. So, why do we waste it, divert it, convert it and even pollute it?

One reason we have already mentioned is human greed. There are too many examples of dumping toxic chemicals and waste in our water supply to save money at the cost of others.

A second reason, and of more concern, is indifference. We see water everywhere and assume its abundance. And, unless we suffer its loss, we don’t feel the pain.

We have already addressed the issue of greed versus stewardship when it comes to food and the environment. Those same principles apply to the resource of water as well.

But the issue of indifference is something else. Or is it?

Isn’t indifference, like greed, just another by-product of selfishness?

In trying to enjoy our own lives, we choose to be ignorant of larger issues such as the plight of others in the world or the future well-being of our children and grandchildren.

Again, please know that here at St. Francis we do not teach our students to revere water or any part of nature over man. Quite the opposite, man was clearly given dominion.

But with that authority comes responsibility. We do have a duty of stewardship for the benefit of those around us today and for those who will be here tomorrow.

And, this duty should be particularly applied to our most vital resources, including water.

“When the well is dry we will know the worth of water.” Benjamin Franklin