The Editor, Sir:

I am saddened by the 'school violence' in Denham Town. I spent 20 years of my life there, and left Jamaica 41 years ago because of the same problems.

I was beaten, stabbed, my lower jaw was broken on both sides in 1963, and I was almost killed.

I was an innocent person who happened to be one of those who would not 'follow the crowd'.

I feel so disturbed about all of this. I became a nurse in Europe, wanted to return, but was fearful that I might be killed.

Now at age 61, I have chosen to stay away, and only visit occasionally. Our young people need safe places to attend schools, they are the future of any country. I have not been able to sleep since the problem here in the USA at the college, and now in my hometown. May God have mercy on all of us.

I am, etc.,

DR. MILLICENT BYGRAVE

jmgibbons@alltel.net

Moultrie, Georgia

Via Go-Jamaica