THERE was a time when I wasn't too concerned about saving water. But these days, I think it's one of the most important things to think about and do.

It all started when I heard Mom calling our names one early morning. ''Who was the last to use the bathroom?" she said. "The faucet has been dripping since last night!" My mom looked very worried. I already knew that I was the culprit because my sister, whom I shared the room with was already sleeping when I brushed my teeth. I told my mom this and the ''sermon'' started all over again.

When the rainy days came, I thought we wouldn't have to be bothered by needing to save water. Because when it rains, water is everywhere! But one day, I wished it would stop raining so I could go out and play. I wanted to play ping-pong.

To my astonishment, my wish came true. The rain stopped. ''Just a coincidence,'' I thought and dashed downstairs. But it was dark and there was no electricity.

I felt thirsty. I called Mom. There was no answer so I went to the kitchen. I saw her shaking our water containers in the refridgerator. They were all empty. She had that worried look on her face again.

''Dress up. We will go to your aunt's house," she said. "We'll all take a bath there and get some drinking water."

I asked myself, "How long can we stay like this without water?" Our bodies need water. We need it to cook our food, wash our clothes, use the bathroom, to feed the animals and plants.

It was only then that I understood why my mom always seemed to be extra worried about water: she cares for our needs.

I made a wish. I wanted it to rain so we could collect rain water. But this time my wish was not granted. So I promised to always save water.

I want to teach other kids how important water to all of us here on earth.

My dad taught me and my two sisters that every time we open the faucet or shower, water in our deep well tank goes down to the level which will allow a motor to automatically start using electricity. So that when the motor pump is on, our MERALCO meter moves faster and our electric bill increases.

Try examining your electric meter and you will note that it turns faster whenever you use the airconditioner, electric flat iron, your stove or other big appliances.

So let us help our parents cut on expenses by saving water.

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