Yesterday I was bemused, as outside was overcast but not raining. After that I heard water pouring from a roof into a barrel. I recollected that this was normal in my culture. Most roofs were made of tin (Galvanized, steel, metal). In order to economize we would catch rain to lower the cost of the water that came to the houses from the springs. This was also used to minimize the chlorine treated water. Some people held the view that rain water was healthier to drink. I also recently discovered that collecting rain water is an old African practice. The book I read mentioned particularly those of the Dinka tribe adhering to this although I am sure that collecting rain water is a custom unique to many people and cultures worldwide. As water is becoming more scarce and there are droughts affecting many (even developed) nations collecting rain water may become the typical way to gather water once again. What is your own cultures view on it? I notice that people are viewing this blog from around the world. Let’s start a conversation here about rain water.
Lined oak wine barrel
Painted oil drums beats
Collecting rain water from corrugated tin roofs
Sensuous to smell
As customs trek miles of land
-
Poem by Brenda L. McCartney
