My fellow Anguillans, as a concerned citizen, I have taken time out to address you on the recent crimes that have been taking place in Anguilla, the land we love, and the serious effects they have on our society and our economy.
It is time we start seriously to protect our youths from these senseless killings: young men whose lives are taken tragically and so untimely. Let us start helping the police – working with them to combat these crimes.
It is time we tear down these stupid walls and borders.Anguillais too small for gang wars. Way too small. We are all blood relatives. It is passed time we build walls of love and peace that cannot be broken. It is passed time we get rid of the rage and anger, and begin forgiving each other, embracing each other and loving each other even as Christ Jesus loved us.
The mothers of the land are crying – mourning. Our sons – the next generation – who are our future leaders are dying. The nation is hurting. Mother Anguilla is crying out for peace.
I am appealing to all our leaders, and all who are set in authority, to take a stand and work hand in hand – and in so doing be an example to our people by helping the police to maintain peace, law and order in our once tranquil Anguilla.
Satan has come to steal, kill and destroy our young men, but people of Anguilla: get up, stand up and remember God said, in His words, “If my people which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Come brothers and sisters of our nation: let us get back to the days when we made God an integral part of our daily lives – the days of the brotherly love we had for each other. Let us be our brother’s keeper – looking out for neighbour’s children like our own. And when we get back to this love of God, I know that the Lord saveth and will save us with the strength of His righteous right hand. So let us be that nation that believe in God as our fore-parents did, knowing God can. Our God can.
“Some trust in chariots and some trust in horses, but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God.”
My heart goes out to all the families who have lost loved ones, and to those who have been left scarred or crippled for life through irrational shootings.
My love and the Peace of God which passeth human understanding be with you. God bless you, and God bless Anguilla land we love.
Jerome Vanterpool
(A.K.A. Ranger)
