Don’t Waste Water: A Story of Consequences and Responsibility

 Introduction: Why Saving Water Matters

In today’s world, water conservation is more important than ever. This story, *Don’t Waste Water*, highlights the consequences of wasting water through the experiences of Sabal, a young boy sent to a residential school. Through his actions and their aftermath, he learns a valuable lesson about the importance of not wasting water. It’s a reminder to children and adults alike about why we need to save water for future generations.

 The Importance of Water Conservation

Sabal was the son of Damana and Abi, two busy entrepreneurs who traveled frequently for work. Because they were often away, they sent Sabal to a residential school. Sabal wasn’t thrilled about living away from home, but over time, he began to enjoy the school’s creative teaching and exciting activities.

But there was one thing he couldn’t quite understand: the school’s strict rules about water.

The hostel warden often reminded students, “Remember, every drop counts! Don’t waste water.” Sabal thought it was a bit silly. After all, there was always water in the tap, right?

One day, he asked the warden, “Why are you so strict about water?”

The warden replied seriously, “Imagine if one day you turned on the tap, and nothing came out. Water is precious, Sabal. If we waste it, there might not be enough for everyone.”

Sabal shrugged it off, thinking it was just another one of the warden’s rules.

The Consequences of Wasting Water: Sabal’s Mistake

One evening, after Sabal and his friend Druv finished their homework, they decided to have a little fun. Sabal had an idea. “Let’s get the garden hose from the washroom! We could have a water fight!”

Druv’s eyes lit up. “Yes! But be quick, so the warden doesn’t catch us!”

They snuck to the washroom, grabbed the hose, and turned on the water. A strong spray burst out, and they aimed it at each other, laughing and shouting. Soon, water was splashing everywhere, soaking their clothes and making puddles across the floor.

But then, Sabal noticed something—the water was pooling around their feet, flooding the floor and spreading toward the door.

“Uh-oh,” he muttered, wide-eyed. “I think we used too much…”

Just then, the door swung open, and the security guard gasped. “What is going on here?!” He quickly called the warden.

The warden came in, crossing her arms and looking at the mess. Sabal and Druv were scared. But instead of scolding, she sighed and shook her head.

“Sabal, Druv, water isn’t just for playing. Now look at the trouble you’ve caused. Do you understand why we ask you not to waste it?”

Both boys nodded, too embarrassed to speak.

 Learning the Hard Way: The Trekking Lesson

The next morning, the warden asked Sabal and Druv to come to her office. “We’re going on a long trek today. Pack carefully.”

Sabal and Druv were thrilled trekking was always fun! They set off through the mountains with the other students, enjoying the beautiful scenery. But Sabal, feeling curious and confident, ran ahead of the group, ignoring the warden’s call to stay close.

After a while, Sabal realized he had wandered off the trail and was all alone. He called out for help, but the only reply was silence. And then, he heard a sound that sent a chill down his spine—the low roar of a lion in the distance.

Panicking, he ran, but soon he was tired and out of breath. He realized he had left his water bottle back with the group and was terribly thirsty.

“Why didn’t I bring my water?” he muttered, his throat dry and his legs feeling heavy.

 The Tree’s Warning: A Lesson on Water Conservation

Just then, he noticed a tall tree that seemed to whisper in the breeze. In his tired and thirsty state, it sounded like the tree was talking to him.

“Why are you thirsty, young one?” it seemed to say. “Isn’t it because you wasted water yesterday? Now, water is hard to find.”

Sabal, frightened and exhausted, felt a pang of regret. “I didn’t think… I didn’t know it would be this serious. I’m sorry…”

Just as he closed his eyes, the warden appeared, giving him a bottle of water. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and said, “Sabal, do you see now why we must treasure every drop?”

Sabal nodded, his voice barely a whisper. “I’ll never waste water again, I promise.”

A Promise to Never Waste Water Again

Back at the school, Sabal told his friends about his experience and the promise he’d made. From that day on, he was careful not to waste water. He even started reminding others, saying, “Every drop counts!”

Moral of the Story: Why We Should Never Waste Water

The lesson Sabal learned is simple but powerful: *Never waste water. * Water is a precious resource that we often take for granted. But it’s essential for survival, and as we face environmental challenges, it’s more important than ever to value and conserve it.

By making small changes, like turning off taps or fixing leaks, we can all play a part in saving water and making sure it’s there for future generations.