Not the Raymond we knew

THE EDITOR: This article is being written after the terrible news that made the headlines last week of a father who had forced his six-year- old son to ingest a poisonous substance and then to drink some himself, with both succumbing to the poison the following day. This act has caused much pain and sorrow not only to his wife, brothers, relatives, friends, and co-workers, but to the entire country. Raymond Anthony was a man who worked as a security guard with our company Trinrico Steel and Wire Products for many years; he was a good man, a loving father, a dedicated worker, a kind person who was always willing to give a helping hand.

Raymond was very much loved by his brothers who always respected and looked out for him. He lost his parents at a tender age and the four brothers grew up very close and have always tried to make an honest living, despite the odds. I was out of the country when I received the news and still cannot come to terms with the fact that a man who would give his life for his only son whom he loved so much, has committed such an evil act to put out his light. What could have influenced the mind of this man, who had been involved in helping me do acts of charity and taking part in religious activities? I believe with my heart that there was a spiritual battle, between good and evil.

Up to the morning of that fatal day, none of his co-workers, his family or my family members noticed that Raymond Anthony was in anguish and turmoil. I believe it was an unguarded moment that out of rage, pain, hopelessness and the devil’s destructive influence that he was led to commit such a devastating act of desperation, which has left everyone he knew in terrible grief. There are inadequate words to express the sorrow of the loss of Raymond and Rayshawn and it is our prayer that God would forgive him. On behalf of my family and the staff of Trinrico, we offer our sympathy and we pray for the healing of the memories of his wife, his brothers, the rest of his family and friends.

BEATRIZ RAMOUTARSINGH Director — Trinrico Steel and Wire Products Ltd