Don't get me a gift for my birthday, Instead, help me bring the gift of clean water to those in need.

As I turn 26 this year, I reflect on all that has happened and how my experiences have taught me what are the truly important things in life.

People often say that when you work hard, you should play hard and buy yourself things that make you happy. While that is true, I have learned that we are so focused on these material things only because we are very privileged people who have the basics: a roof, food and water. While we dream of the newest car or fanciest purse, others dream of simply having water to drink. Clean water.

I discovered Charity Water last year and did my first birthday campaign. I'm back because when we put into perspective what we have and compare ourselves to others, we realize that we are rich. When we are thirsty, we go to our fridge and pour some water in a glass. If we're on the go, we drive to the nearest convenience store and buy bottled water. Easy.

What if we had to walk miles with a bucket only to bring back home dirty water that gets our family sick? What if searching for water was such an odyssey that it took time from going to school or work? That is the reality of millions of people around the world, right now in 2016.

I wasn't fond of birthdays, mostly because I didn't like being the center of attention and it makes me happier to gift than to receive gifts. When I realized that I could turn my birthday into something that would help others, it changed everything. I look forward to it because the longer I live, the longer I can contribute to this world, even if it's in a small scale.

My goal is to raise $300 and bring clean water to 10 people. Even a dollar makes a difference. I invite you all to learn more about this incredible non-for-profit organization and their work.

We have what we need to survive. Let's help others have it too.

Much love,
Krystel