The Editor, Sir:

As we close the book of 2007 and open the first chapter of 2008, I want to urge all Jamaicans to make 2008 the year when we reach out to each other and mend all our broken relationships.

Oftentimes because of our stubbornness to admit when we are wrong and to say sorry for the wrong that we have done, we create major divisions - divisions that sometimes escalate beyond our ability to control.

When we look at the crime statistics for 2007, we must admit that many of the crimes, in particular murders, could have been prevented if persons had made an effort to let go of past hurts.

Families torn apart

There are many families that have been torn apart and members have not spoken to each other for years. These are family members who at one time were inseparable and now there is a level of indifference to each other.

There is no better way to start the new year than for family members to extend the hand of friendship to each other, and where applicable apologise for the wrong or hurt that they have caused each other.

Additionally, there are many family unions that have been in disarray because of infidelity or indiscretion of one spouse. This has created so much tension in the family with so many persons suffering.

I am aware that in this can be a very complicated issue on both sides but we must, for our own health and for the sake of our loved ones be prepared, after the grieving process, to bury the hatchet and move on.

Our politicians also need to reach out to each other and send the message to their supporters that we are a democratic society so all persons will never belong to the same party and we need to accept and love each other as brothers and sisters.

Even in our churches we find that members and, sadly, sometimes those at the leadership level, are not at peace with each other. And, from time to time new congregations are formed dividing the original congregation.

Need for introspection

As a nation, there is need for introspection. We need to look at the monster we have created by our refusal to admit when we are wrong. I believe that many of the ills of 2007 and prior years could have been prevented if we had tried not to render evil for evil but allow love and forgiveness to thrive.

Additionally, while some persons were prepared to accept responsibility for the hurt that they have caused, there were too many persons who were not willing to accept the apology and bury the hatchet.

If we want a better Jamaica, we need to start the process by declaring 2008 our year to mend and strengthen our relationships with each other. Let us let go of the grudge and hate that is killing us and embrace each other as our brother, friends, neighbour and more importantly as Jamaicans.

I am, etc.,

PAT BIGNALL

wilbig@cwjamaica.com