The Editor, Sir:

This is in response to Garth Rattray's column of September 1.

Your column suggests that you have ignored our slide into moral and ethical decline and suddenly expect solemn respect for our flag from a people who no longer respect themselves, authority or anything held sacred by my generation (born prior to 1960).

Too bad. You are 20 years too late. I could elaborate but suffice to say that way back when I was a 'socialist', I took umbrage at P.J. Patterson's use of race to alienate Seaga (who, incidentally was doing a fine job of alienating himself with no one's help).

Semi-intelligent

I complained then to deaf ears and then scandal after scandal reinforced the view of many Jamaicans that stealing and lying were fine.

Sorry Doc, but if you complained too, I did not hear. Now as long as they don't burn my flag or put a motion to Parliament to change the black to red, I don't care. I count my blessings and pray for my country daily.

I am, etc.,

STEPHEN SMITH

Florida