THE EDITOR, Sir:
IT HAS been proven over and over again that "where there is no vision the people perish". It's true of our political leaders who lack vision and are only content to make their mark for 'good' or 'evil'.
I refer particularly to the destruction of our natural resources. Jamaica is a country blessed with incomparable natural resources, but what we have seen is the wanton rape of what God has given us. Primitive man recognised the relationship between man and nature. Unfortunately, we do not.
How else can one explain the destruction of the Long Mountain to build houses? It's inconceivable that the government could fail to see the impact this would have. Natural resources once destroyed can never be replaced. But government is giving into the greed of developers. Where are the green areas preserved in the sprawling metropolis of Kingston and Portmore, St. Catherine? Where do the children play? Where do people find a place to relax and be with nature?
If we build houses, forgetting to supply emotional and spiritual needs, we are cultivating a nation of civilised savages. Are there parks in our depressed areas? I do not mean an empty space, but a place with trees and shrubs and small animals and birds. No! All our empty lands are targeted for housing.
The furore over Hope Gardens was justified. Hope Gardens should have a forested area with path so that visitors can see our trees and shrubs.
On a recent visit to Houston, it was a delight to visit an arboretum in the heart of the city and it was great to see people who were content just to walk and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
I jokingly remarked that in Jamaica there would be vendors outside and maybe robbers inside. Over in Portland wetlands, Folly is now a dumped up commercial area.
The fish, birds, butterflies and frogs are gone, thanks to the Government.
The citizens of Portland will have to rally to save the wetlands at Anchovy.
The viciousness of many of our people could be minimised if there was only some place to go, but in our depressed area it's only the streets.
It's time for our leaders to wake up and realise the true quality of life does not lie only in economic prosperity, but in fulfilling the soul of man.
I am, etc.,
DOREEN McLEOD-BRAMWELL
Port Antonio
