We could learn a lot from the US

THE EDITOR, SIR:

PLEASE allow me space in your newspaper to commend to our so-called political leaders in Jamaica the manner in which the United States leadership has handled, and is handling, the tragic events of Tuesday, September 11, 2001.

That Americans unite in a common cause in times of national disaster is well-documented. That they unite, regardless of political persuasion, for the good of the country, America, is beyond debate.

Look at the display of unity. Look at the concern that most Americans are showing for each other. Look at the resolve.

Since we like to parrot things in Washington and Miami and New York City, how about parroting the attitudes that America and its leadership display in the face of crisis and adversity?

In July when we had our debacle in Kingston, there was so much mayhem and confusion; so many people attempting to assign blame.

It took weeks for the two major persons contending to lead our country - one is actually leading our country - to sit down and talk about what transpired and come up with a plan of action. In fact, I doubt that they even considered a plan of action.

That could never happen in the U.S. Borrow that from the U.S., instead of borrowing the focus on materialism, when we live on a shoe-string budget; the focus on brand name clothing and shoes; capitulation to the enemies of our society, among other negative things. Learn something from the American spirit.

Yes, crises happen in every corner of the globe, as some rationalizing Jamaicans are quick to point out.

However, what separates patriots and worthy leaders from misguided nationals and poor leaders is the manner in which a national crisis is handled.

We could learn from a lot on this matter from the U.S.

I am, etc.,

AINSWORTH A. BAILEY

ainsworth_bailey@yahoo.com

Liverpool, New York

Via Go-Jamaica

Back to Letters