These words brought back fond memories of childhood as I remembered reciting these words every morning during assembly while at primary school. At a time when standing at attention for sixty seconds felt like torture, the true meaning of these words became lost and the commitment and responsibilities they declare became overshadowed by boyhood indiscipline. Over the years had I forgotten these words and I consider it tragic as I had forgotten a promise I made to Jamaica.
Over the past few weeks, watching the news, reading the newspapers and listening to talk shows highlighting political apathy, uncontrollable crime and an economy on the brink of collapse, I have often wondered "What can I do?" "How can I make Jamaica better?" I keep coming back to these words.
I am not able to strong-arm politicians to do the right thing, I cannot force gunmen to put down their guns and I do not have the money to "bailout" the economy. I can however, use my talents, abilities and creativity to make a contribution towards making Jamaica a better place.
I am sure I am not the only one who has forgotten these words and would like to encourage all Jamaicans to remember this promise we have made. Let us reaffirm our commitment and graciously accept the responsibilities we have to this 'Jamaica Land We Love'.
For those of us who did not recognise the words, these are the words of our National Pledge.
I am etc,
ADRIAN KERR
adrian_kerr@hotmail.com
Savanna-la-mar
Westmoreland
