The Honourable Louise Bennett-Coverley got up to some antics and made a face as then nine-year-old Natalee Edwards planted a
kiss on her cheek after presenting her with a copy of a video cassette of her works at a special reception in her honour, during her vist to Jamaica in 2003. Demand for her work has increased since her passing, last Wednesday. - File
On Wednesday, August 4, 2003, when I was nine years old, my mom took me to a function at Jamaica Pegasus hotel where Miss Lou was being honoured. My mom wanted me to go along with her to see Miss Lou because she grew up in the days of Ring Ding, plus she wanted me to learn and experience more of my Jamaican culture.
Upon our arrival at the Jamaica Pegasus ballroom, we sat close to the front to get a good view of the golden-aged comedienne, seated at the centre of the stage, the famous Miss Lou. She recited some of her popular poems and stories making everyone laugh and remember the good old days when "Auntie Roachie seh!"
Short break
After doing her pieces, there was a short break during which a lady went around in the crowd of mainly adults searching for a child to present a token to Miss Lou. At this time, my mom had turned away to talk to an old friend when the lady approached me and asked me to present Miss Lou with a video recording of all her works. I agreed and so the lady proceeded to take me onstage.
When my mom turned around she was surprised to see me being escorted away from her, so she followed us to investigate what was happening.
I had no time to create a speech, but I proudly and eloquently said to her, "Miss Lou, on behalf of the Creative Production and Training Centre (CPTC), it gives me great pleasure to present you with this cassette." A thunderous applause went up and cameras began to flash. Then the photographers turned the camera at different angles and instructed me on how to stand and pose with Miss Lou. One instruction was to give her a kiss. I then planted a kiss on her soft cheek. After this, the function was over.
The next day, a picture of me kissing Miss Lou was published on the front page of The Gleaner.
I got the original photo a few days later and my Grandma Marguerita who was a good friend of Miss Lou got her to autograph the photo for me. She also wrote her popular saying, "You walk good" on it.
Now that I am 12 years of age, I cherish not only this photograph, but more so, the day I met Miss Lou!
Have a boonoonoonus time in Heaven Miss Lou, mi know yuh walk good. You have made us proud of our Jamaican heritage, you are a cultural and national icon. I love you.
- Natalee-Ann Edwards - St. Andrew High School for Girls
