THE EDITOR, Sir:
EACH YEAR at this time, Captain Rudolph Jobson and I spend several days assisting the Jamaica Legion in its annual Poppy Appeal. We do this by walking around the various shopping malls and plazas of Ocho Rios, visiting each shop and/or office, and asking the staff to make a small contribution of whatever they can afford towards the appeal.
In addition, by prior arrangement, we are allowed to stand for hours on end in two of the town's banks, asking their customers to make a small donation. We find the people of Ocho Rios are very generous and supportive of our efforts.
This letter, however, has been prompted by two specific experiences today. Firstly, there is a physically impaired Rastafarian gentleman who frequents the area between the Gem Palace and Trade Winds Restaurant, playing his guitar for visitors. He approached me for help and I told him that today, I was the needy person and explained why. Without a moment's hesitation he reached into his pocket and then dropped a $20 coin into my tin, in exchange for the token poppy which I affixed to his lapel.
The second incident took place at the Taj Mahal Plaza where Capt. Jobson had an identical experience with one of the street people of our town. We are so quick to criticise, so quick to turn aside and look the other way when approached by those in need, so judgmental of those less fortunate than ourselves. I learned a very salutary lesson today, and was truly humbled by the experience which needs to be shared with your readers.
Love and compassion still abound in our beautiful island. I hope that everyone who reads this letter will be touched by the message and will support the work of the legion this and every year.
I am, etc.,
DOROTHEA
WHITEHORNE J.P.
dodotoo@cwjamaica.com
