"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world.

Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

- Margaret Mead

The Editor, Sir:

I just simply want to thank the members and yourself, who have taken the time to help to clean up this country.

It saddens me very greatly to hear those persons who are berating your efforts. Once upon a time this country was extremely clean; those of us with rural roots know the history of flowers being planted in butter-pans and chamber pots. It was a ritual for everyone to sweep their yards, those who could not afford brooms, would pick broom weeds. We valued and lived by the motto, 'Cleanliness is next to Godliness'. We also lived and practised the nursery rhyme 'Bits of paper'. And guess what, do you know that if you happen to drive in the country area on an early morning, you still see people doing that?

Divisiveness and cynicism

The divisiveness and cynicism that beams throughout our daily existence is stifling our ability to see the good in genuine and simple gestures. I am even more surprised at some journalists who have joined the conversation. They have such tunnel vision. Cleanliness and beautification soften the spirit, even if for a while and that is good; temper relief is good in our harsh society today.

Why does government have to do everything? Shouldn't we as citizens learn to clean up after ourselves? Where is the personal responsibility? Please do not be distracted by the prophets of doom, wanting government to do everything. May the Lord continue to bless you, especially in promoting the general beautification and cleaning-up of this country.

Let us all make sure that this gesture is not symbolic. I am sure your effort will trigger a multiple effect in our island. Those of us who know the value of cleanliness and beautification will hopefully be inspired by the above quote, as well as the words of Goethe, "Let everyone sweep in front of his door and the whole world will be clean."

We are all so excited about this current event, World Cup Cricket in Jamaica! It's such a wonderful time that many people who don't even know about cricket are going to the opening ceremony, because we hear that there's nowhere better, more world-class, than the Trelawny stadium.

May God continue to bless Jamaica, land we love.

I am, etc.,

MABEL ROBB

gmablerobb@yahoo.com

10 Golden Road

Kingston 6

St. Andrew

Via Go-Jamaica