I drank from the toilet, and I drank from cupped hands.

This couplet beautifully illustrates the journey of quenching thirst. "Drinking in sips" could suggest a cautious beginning, perhaps when water is scarce, or savoring something precious drop by drop. This transitions to "drinking in handfuls, with cupped hands," which vividly portrays a moment of deep satisfaction, a raw and direct connection to life-giving water, unburdened by containers or hesitation. It captures the profound relief and joy of finally satisfying a deep longing.