Swimming pools, water slides, river rafting—summer & water, what a delightful duo! Scientists wonder if coming generations will have the resources to enjoy such treats. They predict that we face a critical shortage of water—readers of Frank Herbert’s Dune series can imagine the ramifications.

How, then, can we honor water—enjoying its gifts and conserving it as a precious resource for future generations? Below are a few suggestions. Do you have others?

• Experience a glass of water with your senses: feel the water’s coolness on your hand as it flows from the tap, listen as it hits the bottom of the container, hold the glass up to a light and study the colors within the water, taste the water—what memory does your taste evoke?
• Indulge in a long bath instead of a long shower; every once in awhile, light candles, play quiet music, and settle in for a soak.
• Wait to wash. Wait until you have a full load in the dishwasher or the clothes washer before running them.
• Xeriscape. Reduce the need to water the lawn by replacing “water-needy” plants with more drought-resistant ones.
• Watch a rainstorm. Turn out the lights, snuggle up with someone you love, and just be.
• Read A Search for Delicious by Natalie Babbitt. A delicious read!
• Make a splash! Whether it’s a pool party, a water balloon fight, or just rolling up your pants legs for a wade, let water work its magic on you. After all, what better way to honor water than with laughter?

Do you have other suggestions?