AS WE celebrate 47 years of Independence, we must use the time to reflect on what were the driving forces that propelled our leaders then to pursue that course - what are the positives that emanated from the decision that we would want to continue to build on and, what are the negatives that we must revolutionise.

While some of us may not have been around at the time, we believe that this must have been a very brave move at the time. One that must have been rooted in confidence and faith. There must have been the belief in the resilience of the Jamaican people and their ability to rise to any challenge.

Identity

As we reflect, most of us have agreed that the right decision was made. We cannot, however, discount the fact that there are some among us who believe that we would have been better off as a nation if we were still being breastfed by Britain.

Forty-seven years is a relatively short period in the history of a country. And if we are honest in our reflections, we will admit that we have made great strides since August 6, 1962. Strides that we probably would not have had the opportunity to make or strides that we would have made but concealed under the identity of other people/nation.

Our Independence theme this year expressing a belief in our country is most opportune. It is indeed a call to action - why do we believe in Jamaica? What do we need to do as a people to solidify that belief? Yes, in our reflections on the 47 years since Independence, there are things that we, as a people, could have done better, there are many wrongs that need to be righted. But, while our future must be guided by the negatives and the positives of the past, we have the opportunity to collectively determine the things that we want to dwell and build on.

We must as a people set aside all the things that have divided us over the years, and embrace the things that have always united us. Yes Jamaicans! I believe that we can.

I am, etc.,

Pat Bignall

wilbig@cwjamaica.com