Desert Pete
Priming the Pump

In the early 1960s, folk singer Billy Edd Wheeler wrote a song that later became a classic for The Kingston Trio: Desert Pete. It tells the tale of a weary traveler crossing the desert, desperate for water.

At last, he stumbles upon an old hand pump. Next to it sits a small jar of water and a handwritten note from someone known only as “Desert Pete.” The message is clear: “Don’t drink this water. Use it to prime the pump. Pour it in, and soon you’ll have all the cool, fresh water you need. But remember—refill the jar for the next traveler.”

The man faces a dilemma. The jar in his hand could quench his thirst for a moment, or he could risk it all—pouring it away in faith that the pump would deliver far more.

The beauty of the story lies not only in his decision to trust, but in the reminder that true abundance comes when we think beyond ourselves. The traveler’s act of faith rewards him with flowing water, but the story doesn’t end there: he refills the jar, ensuring the cycle continues for those who come after him.

The lesson is timeless: generosity fuels renewal. By giving first, you create conditions where more can flow—whether in life, in business, or in community. And when we “refill the jar” for others—through mentorship, collaboration, or sharing knowledge—we help build a future where abundance doesn’t end with us.