THE EDITOR, Sir:
THIS YEAR, as a nation, we embark on our 43rd year of Independence.
Without any doubt, Jamaicans everywhere will celebrate in style when the appropriate milestone arrives. One might question the relevance of referring to Independence Day even prematurely. The reasons being, as we enter into a new year it is evident that we will be confronted with new challenges, collectively and individually.
Unfortunately, such challenges will come not from external enemies but from within our own geographical borders. We cannot successfully fight new battles until we adequately identify and address the pre-existing ones. Sadly, some of these problems have grown up with us during the course of the past 42 1/2 years; to the extent that they have taken on an independent life of their own. Now, without any exaggeration, we have a monster in our midst.
OPTIMISTIC
Monstrous evils are evident in our society by the spiralling levels of callous murders and other grave crimes against people and property. Anyhow, we must be optimistic. I have a dream, a firm belief that we can and will overcome. In tackling these evils among us, it is imperative that we have a national consensus, encapsulating everyone who has a stake in our society, including parliamentarians, lawyers, clergymen/women, doctors, teachers, parents, police, military, etc. (South Africa described theirs as a Truth and Reconciliation Commission).
The aim is to foster a spirit of individual responsibility and pride. Ultimately, each person should realise that he/she has something to lose if Jamaica, Land we Love, continues its downward spiral into self-annihilation and ruin. Hopefully, this national consensus will provide the catalyst for the rebirth and rebuilding of our great nation. With this in place, on August 6, 2005, Jamaicans everywhere can light fireworks, sing and dance in the streets, with full assurance that our forefathers did not fight in vain, sacrificing their lives for a free and peaceful Jamaica.
I am, etc.,
N. FOSTER
Nicholas.rfos
@blueyonder.co.uk
London, UK.
