Generosity and dignity

Today we've met with family groups from two different villages, one 'pre-intervention' and one post. In the first village we were met with a welcome that was quite overwhelming with flower garlands, drumming, dancing and speeches. Someone will have had to walk miles this morning to get fresh flowers and then spend the time to make them up for 20 people ! This generosity was shown everywhere else we've visited today - I've received more garlands, sweets and a scarf, which is really quite humbling but not as much as the whole village turning out to meet you !

We signed our name on a banner made to commemorate our visit. I feel quite proud to have my name there but it really represents everyone else who's given time and money to WaterAid and not just me.


In small groups we then went into a family home to find out more about them which is where I got to know a little bit about Siva, her husband and her 4 year old son. We talked about how they live, earn money and of course how they get their water.  We also helped them fetch some water and went to see the planned location of the new well and hand pump that is going to be installed. One thing that struck me was when I asked Siva what was going to be different when they had the new supply for the village she told us she would be able to be clean - herself, her family and home. It reminded me that access to water is more than being able to drink and prepare food but also means you can live a more dignified life as well. These are very unassuming people who aren't asking for much and certainly deserve safe water that isn't up to a 2km trek 3 times a day with 20kg on your head !