As I read The Gleaner from my computer, tears, anger and shame overwhelmed me. As a proud Jamaican yearning to return home, I find it hard to believe that in 2008 we are still being ruled by thugs. As I watched poor people abandoning their homes out of fear under the watchful eyes of the police, I can only ask, what next?

The Governments (present and past) has failed miserably and will have to answer to a higher power. May many more 'informers' arise! Dr J. Ford has raised a very important point - "the right to bear arms". I totally agree and won't be returning unless I can legally get a permit to bear arms.

Cowards hide behind guns and group strength to terrorise innocent civilians. If we are allowed to bear arms, at least we will have a fighting chance. I am reminded of a quote from a famous Jamaican poet, Claude McKay: "If we must die, let it not be like hogs ... !" And Bob Marley: "Get up! Stand up!, fight for your rights ... "

I am, etc.,

LENFORD BEDASEE

lbbedasee@comcast.net

West Palm Beach

Florida

Via Go-Jamaica