Isaiah’s message

The events of July 23 at Ariapita Avenue robbed Isaiah of a chance to keep his date with destiny.

But his family now wishes to pursue his proposal in memory of him. The stance of the Hospedales family, especially during their time of grief, is a positive one which we wholeheartedly commend. With a murder toll fast approaching 300, we as a society have become apathetic to the barbarism unfolding around us. Too often, victims are forgotten.

And equally forgotten are their relatives. Very often, these relatives need support, be it emotional, financial or otherwise.

The impact of a murder on a community is also incalculable.

Sadly, recrimination and cries for retribution sometimes ring out, worsening an already tragic situation and paving the way for further violence. Not so in the case of Isaiah’s family. We encourage all to support initiatives like the Isaiah Hospedales AKA ‘Papi’ Fund. And we hope to see more attempts to bring about positive outcomes in the wake of crime.

As nations all over the world reflect on the issues facing youth, we are left in no doubt as to the most pressing issue facing the youngsters of Trinidad and Tobago.

Crime continues to harm our youngest citizens most. According to an analysis prepared by the Powerful Ladies of TT, as at July 31, 60 per cent of the victims of crime were 35 and under, while 24 per cent were under the age of 25.

Only on Wednesday was a 23- year old Marabella man gunned down at Claxton Bay. In a cruel twist, Kervin Ransome had hours earlier gone to court as part of a process involving a program which has been launched to rehabilitate young males who have been in trouble with the law. His rehabilitation has been cut short, leaving his family to prepare for his funeral.

While things seem unrelentingly bleak, there are rays of hope. In addition to the initiative launched by Isaiah’s family, this week the nation had much cause to celebrate.

The Rio Olympics has provided a wonderful showcase for young athletes such as swimmer Dylan Carter. Carter, 20, must be congratulated for setting a new national record in the men’s 100-meter freestyle at Brazil.

Though his time of 48.80 seconds was not fast enough to make the next round, his effort showed his tremendous promise and set a new standard for local swimmers.

Also setting an example is Andrew Lewis, 26, who valiantly overcame a near death experience in order to make it to Rio.

His inspiring story, including how he has battled with dyslexia over the years, is an amazing one, demonstrating how many of our youths are worthy of emulation.

Christopher George, 32, and Marissa Dick, 19, are also youngsters who have made history, becoming the first nationals to qualify in judo and gymnastics respectively. The message, then, is loud and clear.

Our youth, no matter how great the challenges, can and will overcome. Today, we salute them all.