As we arrived back home, I was reminded what an adjustment it is to live without running water. Every time we leave, we quickly get used to having running water, and then the shock hits when we return. I have come to realize that we need to be prepared for a couple of days to readjust ourselves to life here. Once we are adjusted life gets a lot easier. However those days of adjustment are rough. The type of days when I fight not to cry or get mad when a glass of water spills to the ground. Even though those days are rough, I have been marveling at how quickly we do adapt and become accustom to our situation no matter how different it is. I found myself thanking God today for the ability to adapt and change to the circumstances we face.
So this is what I have discovered about our water situation…
- It seems like we live in one of the worst neighborhoods in terms of water. Are we going to move? No, this location is the best for our ministry and we believe we are right where God wants us to be.
- The problem might get solved at some point, but it has been this way for at least 3 years so that is not hopeful
- On a good day we get a little water during the day from one really low facet. On a bad day (which seem to be getting more common) the water in our one working facet doesn’t turn on until after 10 and is off by the time we wake up.
- We are discussing our options for what type of water system to set up, but with any system we set up the reality is we will have to consciously conserve water everyday. Clean water is rinse water — rinse water becomes wash water — wash water becomes toilet water.
What is it like living without water? Water is involved in so many aspects of life and I rarely noticed them until I didn’t have any water. To describe it all would take too long. So lets start simple – hand washing. Ethan was kind enough to model for us.
We are still waiting for a good night of water to fill up our waterbeds. Having beds would help us feel more settled. We are praying that this blessing might come our way soon!
As I read your post I keep thinking God gives living water and in some way you’re going to use this as an example in your ministry to the people there. I love that even though it’s tough Ethan has a big smile on his face. Lord continue to bless this precious family.
I would go a week without water if I could send all the water to you.
I guess it’s a lot like camping. Without the view of the mountains and the trees…
Every time I turn on a faucet, I pledge to pray for you guys and your ministry.
I can’t think of anything to say except that you make me realize how spoiled we are. Water runs so easily here and we allow so much of it to be wasted. Indeed I am humbled and shamed to know not how spoiled we are but how we don’t even remember to be thankful for it.
I’ll pray that you don’t have to struggle so much for water.
Bless you all.
Carolyn