The Editor, Sir:

Although chances are that the Jamaican Olympic team may have even more success, the achievements so far are unbelievable and command the greatest of respect from all Jamaicans and the world.

Against all odds, this small country, the size of an average US or European city, struggling with resources to train athletes, has put together an Olympic team that demonstrates to the world where determination, hard, honest training, and the dream to achieve will get you.

The team also proves there may be light at the end of the tunnel in spite of so many Jamaicans crying down their own country, dooming it as hopeless and lost beyond any chances of recovery because of the violence and other negatives.

Crime as way of life

It is true that there is violence and many young people have resorted to crime as a way of life. But who or what are the role models for many of our young people? What they often see are gang leaders and dons who rule through terror and crime, flaunting gold chains and brand-name clothes, violent situations in homes, music that promotes violence, intolerance and disrespect towards others, corruption as a way of life and worshipping of all the wrong values. But something changed on the weekend.

More chances to shine

Few expected these overwhelming results of the Jamaican athletes. Yes, hopes were high but success to this extent were beyond our dreams, and there are still more chances to shine. The world looks at Jamaica with new-found respect. People around the globe do not just see Jamaica as the murderous, crime-ridden country only. No disrespect, but it is not just about reggae either anymore.

Parents, teachers and society as a whole should use this Olympic team as a new role model for young people, emphasising that honesty, hard work, personal challenge and sacrifice have led it to excellence, great success, respect and recognition.

In addition, we should transfer this concept of celebrating excellence to other areas - academics, community service, business, music, football and many more.

Let's invest heavily in our young people by giving them new role models, creating chances in all areas of life, and investing most of the country's budget in bringing up proud, honest, educated and productive Jamaicans.

I am, etc.,

BARBARA HENRIQUES

henrique@cwjamaica.com