Blog Action Day 2010

Today is a huge day for bloggers and activists around the world: it's Blog Action Day. For those of you that aren't familiar with the event, Blog Action Day is a single day on the web where thousands of bloggers across more than 130 countries all write about the same issue.

This year Blog Action Day is focused on the issue of water.

Safe, clean drinking water...some of us are very privileged to have this, and we take it for granted. At least, I do. When I'm home.

But, as I've traveled to different parts of the world, I've realized that not everyone has this luxury.

In fact, one-fifth of the world's population does not have access to safe drinking water.

That's 20% too much.

Not having adequate safe water and sanitary latrines can lead to poverty, hunger and disease. Every week, 42,000 people die as a result of drinking contaminated water.

I've unfortunately suffered the effects of drinking unsafe water - and it's not pleasant. I truly wanted to die, the pain was so bad...and the doctors are now telling me my ongoing stomach pain/issues is probably the result of getting too many infections from unsafe water.

I, at least, always knew that I would be returning home soon and my condition would be somewhat temporary. Can you imagine if this was your reality? Your life? Your day-to-day struggle?

What can you do?

Get involved. Do some research. There are many organizations on the ground in many parts of the world that are attempting to make a difference. Water.org is a great organization that works not only in Guatemala (close to my heart), but other places around the world, in an attempt to improve the water supply.

Check out my friend, Rayna, and her blog...she blogs from India, and she's written an interesting post today about the water conditions in Bombay....Click HERE to visit her blog.

Or, visit my friend Bob's, blog HERE. I met Bob many years ago, through our mutual love of Kansas City and Guatemala, and he runs an organization that assists people all over the world...Bob once walked from our town of Kansas City all the way to Guatemala - he's quite an amazing guy and he does amazing things.

And...pray. Pray that we reach the day where 100% of the world's population has safe, clean water. It can happen. Imagine.

Peace.