Dear Editor,
How does a little dot on the globe dominate such a great space on the world stage? I have always been fascinated by the individual and collective drive that our Caribbean neighbour to the north possesses. Why are other nations not able to cultivate this kind of excellence that seems to emanate so effortlessly from a nation that is not a developed country or where the people have all the luxuries and convenience which would help them achieve great things. But yet they do and it is normally achieved by an average person from humble beginnings.
I had the opportunity to understand what makes Jamaicans so good at what they do when I lived there for four years. What I noticed is that even the poorest had a positive outlook on life; they think of doing great things, if not for themselves, for their children. They take great pride in their country as a global identity and embrace their national heroes with passion and admiration. And most importantly, Jamaicans never stoop to the feet of another person regardless of how much that person may have or what position they hold.
There is a high level of commitment they apply to whatever they do, as if they are doing it to be the best in the world. And to prove this fact, just look at Usain Bolt. He walks onto the field with confidence that seems to intimidate his competitors and push them into their shells.
What does all this mean for a country like Guyana? It means that we are sleeping on our individual talent and allowing others to dictate our potential and what we should and should not do. As Guyanese we have to become more free spirited and independently driven with our goals and ambition. We have to create an independent force that is free of political and racial influences.
This is an approach that Walter Rodney wanted to create in Guyana before his untimely death. We are trapped in a politically charged culture fuelled by weak politicians peddling the race card. And in turn, we are misguided on our mission for prosperity and progress.
Let Guyana shine naturally and let our youths be free from backward influences. Let politics become a platform for great minds regardless of race or background. And let every individual achieve their dreams and be free from profiling or oppression.
Yours faithfully,
Malcolm Watkins
