World Water Day 2011

I post this with a bit of wistfulness, being a water professional in a former life.   I hope that I haven't left that part of me behind, and certainly the brain is still engaged, it's just my livelihood doesn't hinge on my participation in these issues anymore.  It's a sad commentary on the priorities in this world today.

Celebrate World Water Day, March 22, 2011

Water is a crucial resource for humans and life on Earth. To celebrate its life-sustaining qualities, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated March 22 as World Water Day to focus attention on the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. 

 

Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater. This year’s theme, Water for Cities: Responding to the Urban Challenge, spotlights and encourages governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to actively engage in addressing urban water management.

According to the UN, one in two people on the planet now live in cities. As the world’s cities become more crowded, the need for water increases. Globally, however, government investment in water infrastructure has not kept up with urbanization. Piping water to growing populations can be complex and expensive. Governments often do not have the resources to meet the demand. And the populations that need the most help often are the poorest. Compound that with a lack of sanitation, and public health threats become worldwide headlines.

To meet this challenge, the UN is encouraging everyone to participate in World Water Day events. Campaign materials, brochures, and other information are available at www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/index.html.

On being busy

Some folks have told me that they don't understand how I can do all that I do.  I am busy, and I would be the first to admit that, especially at this particular point in time, I am too busy.  The busy-ness (perhaps this should be confused with business) seems to be cyclical in terms of coming to a head at about three or four times in the year.  Most of it coincides with the end of term at the local college, where I am NOT a teacher, and the other undertakings in my or my family members' lives. 

I think there are activities that will have to go come the end of this year.  I'll keep my favorites and jettison some dabblings and hope to simplify my life's schedule to a degree that approximates manageable.  But I think that having times like these, where I am overextended, makes me really examine what's important. Often, when I drift along comfortably, I don't question whether what I am doing is really important or worth doing.  There is also something to be said for that period of time where you are completely and utterly pressed for time that makes you value the moments of stillness.


Tonight I am going to a concert by Great Big Sea.  Yes, it's Sunday night and it has been a hell of a week replete with stressful work, choir concerts, dance performances, classes and lessons, but this concert tonight, while it will be loud and exhausting, is goof off time.  I don't have to perform, I don't have to produce, I get to go and enjoy.  So think about this the next time you are feeling stressed and overtaxed - perhaps it is time to rant and roar!