Embracing fellow West Indians

THE EDITOR: Life can be too negative at times and we neglect the many positives. I have just returned from an “eye opening” trip to Grenada where the ravages of nature are all too real and harsh. There is no way any of us can truly appreciate the devastation that they have experienced at the hands of Hurricane Ivan.

It is now nearly five months after, and there is so much that needs to be done. Some buildings like churches and others of historical significance will never be the same again, and we are reminded of how some things that we take for granted are simply irreplaceable. Like life itself, some losses are final. We now have an opportunity to study and learn from this and other disasters that have taken place, and ensure that we do not commit the same errors. Someone is not a builder just because they can lay bricks or hammer a nail.  Take the time to seek expert advice and try to do things the right way. A little extra money, time and thought will save us from so much hardship in the future.

The one true blessing that we, the people of the West Indies possess is our smile and good nature. Let us not lose the zest for living and loving life and instead harness it to continue to produce the brilliance that compliments our vibrant West Indian sun and climate. Now is the time to realise the immense potential that lies within us, and to embrace our fellow West Indians in building a community based on our common desires and values. We can do it all together as one, let the movement start with the “man in the street” and before long, it will be reflected in our leadership.

PRADEEP LATCHMAN
Port-of-Spain