THE EDITOR, Madam:
I RECENTLY WENT to see the movie 'Pay It Forward', for the simple reason of having nothing better to do on a Saturday afternoon. Not only am I glad I went and I would encourage others to do likewise.
While the film is slow and quite sentimental at times, it does explore a concept which could have value in Jamaica at this time: the idea of doing something for someone, who you might or might not know ... doing something for that person who can't do for himself and to make a profound transformation in his life.
The 'Pay It Forward' theme comes into play in that you have to do this for three persons, those three doing it for nine others and so it multiplies exponentially.
Why did this idea have appeal? For the simple reason that most Jamaicans today feel that they cannot make a difference. We look at the seemingly insurmountable problems of crime, a crashing education system, unemployment, economic decline, and say to ourselves, "there is nothing we as individuals can do to effect change". And maybe that is so at a macro level.
My plea today is for everyone to feel empowered enough to effect change at the micro level. I am firmly convinced that we can all make a difference in the life of someone we know, or someone we are aware of, who needs help. After all, "One, one cocoa full basket".
We all don't have to be making pronouncements about what
to do to affect crime and violence, but we can all stretch a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in need. We can all identify a teenager who we can mentor and assist through the turbulent travel to adulthood.
Looking only at the big picture is not going to help this country. Focusing on things that as individuals we can accomplish; things that really make a difference in the hearts and minds of others in this nation can go a far way to changing the outlook of our young people and the soul of Jamaica.
It's not that difficult and after all, we are our brothers' keeper.
I am, etc.,
PAULINE GRAY
