Dear Editor
The Anguillian
Dear Sir
It is obvious that God has blessed Anguilla with a very rare gift. Most countries have either lost it or have never experienced it. That gift is our tranquility.
Take some time out and listen for yourself. Then listen to what our visitors have been saying over the years and are still saying: , “There’s such a peace here!” or “I’ve travelled the world and I have never felt such peace”.
Do you remember the feeling upon returning to Anguilla after going away, even to St Martin? I can recapture that feeling of peace even now. As a result, I am compelled to stand and speak against the things that could destroy our God-gifted tranquility. Shouldn’t all of us do all in our might to preserve this gift? All the more so, since it will be in even higher demand over the next 20, 40 years and beyond.
Our beloved slogan is ‘Tranquility Wrapped in Blue’. Given such, I believe that issues and decisions of national governmental significance must be checked against it. Let’s check then: does the legalization of drag racing impact Anguilla’s tranquility positively, negatively or is it of no effect? Does the legalization of jet skis impact God’s gift to Anguilla – its tranquility – positively, negatively or is it of no effect?
My friends will acknowledge that Avenella would enjoy a jet ski ride. Furthermore, I will share with you that one of my dreams is to drive the pace car for a NASCAR Race! But, I believe that such activities are not in sync with God’s design for Anguilla.
I recognize that God made 18°N 63°W special. Let’s not corrupt ourselves with everything we see other countries doing. Let’s not hand over our gift – our tranquility – for a US Dollar or in the name of entertainment and sport.
I am sure that you are just as convinced as I am that this tranquility is worth far more than money. It is worth more than a thrill or a rush of extreme speed. It is priceless. It deserves and requires our speaking up for it and suffering the consequences of being disliked or cursed out. It deserves and requires our guarding it.
In death no voice is heard, so while I have breath I beg of us, especially those who want to enjoy jet skis and drag racing locally, to see the long term national picture…see that such sports will put our island’s tranquility in jeopardy. Maybe not immediately, but the pillars will be weakened. The old folks say, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure’. It’s true.
In the past, our tranquility kept us, provided for us, enriched us and satisfied us. Currently, we are guilty of taking it for granted and of being tempted and enticed to discard it. For the benefit of future generations, we must acknowledge now that we are blessed with this gift must, and with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, resist the movement that seeks to undermine and destroy it.
Anguilla, let’s say no to jet skis and drag racing. Let’s ward off the threats to our tranquility.
Avenella Griffith
