Water… The Earth is largely made up of it and so are we. Yet do we really understand water?

The groundbreaking work of a pioneer Japanese researcher whose astonishing discovery about water, documented photographically, is perhaps challenging what we know about water and even changing dramatically the way we look at Earth's most precious resource.

Dr Masaru Emoto has developed a technique using a very powerful microscope in a very cold room along with high-speed photography, to photograph newly formed crystals of frozen water samples. By producing different focused intentions through written words, spoken words, music or pictures and literally presenting it to the same water samples, the water appears to "change its expression".

Dr Emoto discovered that crystals formed in frozen water reveal changes when specific, concentrated thoughts are directed toward them. He found that water from clear springs and water that has been exposed to loving words shows brilliant, complex, and colorful snowflake patterns. In contrast, polluted water, or water exposed to negative thoughts, forms incomplete, asymmetrical patterns with dull colors.

Could this be the closest concrete evidence to metaphysical claims that thoughts and feelings affect physical reality?

... it might be the most important discovery in the history of humanity.

The implications of this research will perhaps create a new awareness of how we can positively impact the environment and our personal health. People worldwide are responding warmly to Dr Emoto’s work and the success of his books has been remarkable, with over 400,000 copies sold internationally and listed as a New York Times bestseller. He has also made appearances in films like What The Bleep Do We Know?! and called to lecture around the world as a result.

The year 2008 marks the 15th anniversary of Dr Emoto's stunning discovery and Cosmic Lighthouse is fortunate to catch up with this very busy man to ask him some questions about his work so far.

1. It has been 15 years since you discovered the frozen-water crystal photography technique. What is the first thought that comes to your mind as you review these past 15 years of your work?

That it might be the most important discovery in the history of humanity. I feel a sense of wonder and self-renewal when I think of how one common citizen like me succeeds in such a venture and obtains the sympathy of so many people. I feel a strong sense of responsibility at the same time. I want to walk firmly in the world as a missionary of water in the future so as to spread the message to all people as far as my health permits.