THE EDITOR, Sir:
RECENTLY I returned home to do a mixture of business and to take advantage of a few of the many ventures that are ever present in my part of the woods. I spent most of my time in Clarendon, Manchester, St. Ann and St. James. While in Clarendon, I had one of the most lasting and most satisfying memories in recent time.
As a child of the 70s, a time of serious political awareness and activism, I am always aware of my political environment. As such, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the maturity that has evolved over the years.
While in May Pen, my father (who was also visiting from Canada) and I decided to find a quiet spot to have dinner before we proceed in the hills of northern Clarendon.
BIG DISCUSSION
A friend of my dad recommended that we try a cozy restaurant on Anderson Road a few blocks from where we were visiting. While we sipped drinks awaiting our meal other patrons at neighbouring tables started chatting about the issues of the day. Very soon the big discussion was on Portia's position on fire stations. As I sat there, I was totally enchanted by the depth and objectivity of the different views that were put forth by the group. The discussion was so civil, views were strong, yet they were all so respectful of each others opinion.
Hard as we tried to figure out who was PNP or JLP, we were unable to detect any tone of party affiliation. The discussion was based purely on the merit of the situation with absolutely no evidence of malice, ignorance or a state of been a political. They were on top of current issues and they were not afraid to voice their opinions. Like most typical Jamaicans, both my father and I inevitably joined the discussion after been totally captivated and impressed by this most stimulating discussion.
After we finished eating our spicy, finger-licking, delicious meals, we expressed our appreciation to their insights and headed off to the hills under the shadow of the Bull Head Peak. On our way, we reflected on the conversation and on the very long way we have come as a nation. We reflected on a time when at elections would divide an entire community, family and friends. We reflected on a time gone by when it was inconceivable for Labourites and Socialists to break bread during election time. We reflected on our own individual experiences that led us to appreciate the maturity that has come with time.
So to those guys in May Pen on that cool after-work Easter evening, I say thanks for rekindling my faith in the better good in us. At the end of the day, we all are very proud of this little dot in the Caribbean Sea called Jamdown... as the saying goes "we little but we tallawah". So let's reduce the hate and spread the peace in our communities and let it spread like wild-fire in the midst of the crazy escalating violent times..
I am, etc.,
R. TONY LEWARS
kaiker2002@yahoo.com
P.O . Box 2474
Elizabeth, NJ
