The Editor
The Anguillian
Dear Sir:
It seems that along with all the other aspects of our Anguillian identity which we are losing so rapidly we can now include ‘respect.’ Respect for ourselves and respect for others. For example, on one side of the issue there are schools of children working hard to carve out a positive future and who are now facing graduation. Formally and beautifully attired, proud parents, friends and invited guests attend these ceremonies. The students in their costly gowns are on their best behaviour – this is a formal ceremony! However, at a recent ceremony the principal did not find it necessary to honour the children by being formally dressed – a suit and tie would suffice? Don’t be so self-important – this ceremony is not about you (whoever you may be) but rather to honour the students! Respect for the children, parents and guests was dreadfully missing.
Another example was that of a person leaving a front row seat at a ceremony during the rendition of the Anguilla National Song, and casually walking across the front of the singing group to deposit refuse in the garbage bin. Sorry, this it totally unacceptable, does not show respect for Anguilla, and sends the wrong message to the students. Surely, all of us should know better than that!
A last example (sadly, there are lots of them) is that of one young person, who occasionally mentors at schools, helping children with arts and music, and then is seen in a newspaper photo proudly wearing a T-shirt with the words “Get Stoned Naturally” emblazoned across the front. What was he thinking? Or am I missing the message here?
This kind of attitude has no place in our society. Both Anguilla and future generations of our young persons deserve the very best.
Thank you.
An Anguillian
