THE EDITOR ,Sir:
IN RESPONSE to the letter 'Skilled and Talented Jamaicans' published October 30, 2003 I would like to give another perspective. First, I am also a Jamaican living for the past 16 years in the USA and 'nuh weh nuh betta dan yard' . Most of the skills and talent the Jamaicans abroad have is as a result of the opportunity they had in developing those skills overseas. The thing is to one day somehow return on the investment of the solid foundation that was set growing up in Jamaica.
Yes, there is crime in Jamaica that holds us back from wanting to return but crime is everywhere. There is this false sense that we are safer in 'farin' than Jamaica because we tend to focus so much on the bad things in Jamaica and the good things elsewhere. The fact is when I visit Jamaica, even in the ghettos off Red Hills road, I get a sense of comfort, love and understanding from everyone. I come to the conclusion that if you remember where you are coming from, and can relate with all levels of the society you are as safe in Jamaica as anywhere else in the world.
Like many Jamaicans abroad, I am willing to pay back on the investment Jamaica gave me - my culture, in whatever shape or form. And the day will come for me to return home.
I am etc.,
IAN AYTON
aytonid@millsaps.edu
1a-pro@msn.com
Jackson, Mississippi, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
