I later learned how to command respect from others by practicing the tenets of Rotary International’s Four Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned (win-win)?
In the latter half of 2021, St. Lucians went to the polls. The election campaign of 2021was very subdued due to COVID 19 with the emphasis placed on voting rather than the usual campaigning and rallies. The elections were held on Monday, 26th July, 2021 and resulted in a change of government which saw the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) winning and gaining a strong majority in the house of parliament. The results were as follows: Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) 13 seats, United Workers Party (UWP) 2 seats with 2 independent victories. The Independent Candidates are now prominent ministers in the current administration. Putting People First as promoted by the SLP was a winning slogan.
Here is our chance during this festive Christmas season to practice “loving thy neighbor as thy self†as we vaccinate and reunite with family and friends, albeit within the COVID-19 public health restrictions.
To my dear readers, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health even as your souls prosper. I further wish that you will have a holiday that will afford you Joy and Happiness as you enjoy being among your Family and Friends in an atmosphere of Fun.
My grandfather used to say long life is a blessing, and if someone is blessed to live a long life, he/she will experience many things that he/she would have never thought possible in their lifetime. He died at 91 and his memory is alive in my thoughts. As I live in the twilight of my years, I am blessed to have had the benefit of his wise counsel. He told me many stories which equipped me for life. Today’s generation has not enjoyed the storytelling moments like those of us who were born in the good old days, (post world war 2) when the young listened attentively to the old and in many instances, the lessons learned from the many stories were etched in our minds.
Last week when I sat down to write this column, I was seeing all the signs that the pandemic was receding. However, by the time the weekend newspaper got to the stands, it was a different tune as the OMICRON variant introduced itself to the world from its source country South Africa. The reaction was swift as countries began to place travel bans on travellers from a few African countries. It is evident that COVID 19 will be with us for some time in the future, and as a result, we must have a plan to move on with our lives in a state of consciousness that we can coexist with COVID 19 if we heed the advice of the medical professionals, get vaccinated and adhere to the protocols. We have come thus far and there is a road ahead for all who will be guided by science and obey the health laws of their country.
We must get into the habit of giving thanks. Let us pause and continue to give Yahweh thanks for bringing us thus far. As we look forward to the holiday season, it is so refreshing to hear Christmas songs on the airwaves and watch movies with Santa Claus on our television. The season is really being welcomed. I feel like singing Silver Bells because soon it will be Christmas Day. The festive season is one of the loveliest times of the year when families and friends get together in a spirit of caring and sharing in an atmosphere of peace and love.
On the economic front, America has opened its doors to all vaccinated citizens of the world who are qualified to enter the United States of America. The same situation is also at play where US citizens who are vaccinated can travel to overseas destinations freely. This is great news for the Global Tourism Industry. The Caribbean is in for an extraordinary Winter Season. Cruise ships are coming back and the frequency can only increase if tourists keep within the established protocols and restrain themselves from behaving in a manner that will cause a surge in cases of COVID 19 going forward.
The 5 – 11 age group are all set to receive the Pfizer vaccine as the general feeling is that the USA is about to turn the corner on the COVID 19 pandemic. This is great news if people will apply restraint by not rushing to expose themselves and allow for a gradual return to normalcy.
We must not shy away from the many reasons why employees are not returning to work in the expected numbers. Many have found better ways that fuel their passion and create new opportunities for establishing home-based businesses. Another reason is spending quality time with family. Sober minded families are enjoying this period very much. Things they never did are being done. Many are experiencing life in a manner, they never thought possible. There is a higher meaning to life.