The original family in Jamaica was kept alive by love.

The family was kind and that kindness was displayed through sharing, especially food, considered to be the staff of life. Children were involved, as they were the ones who took the carefully wrapped container to the neighbour.

There was less envy and more defence of justice and truth.

The original family was disciplined. Good manners and respect were a priority, achieved through unity in the community. Parents and teachers facilitated the growth and development of children.

The family in Jamaica today is not dead, but dying. There is too much decay, even though there still exist good, strong, energised family units.

Below are some contributors to the dying family in Jamaica:

1. First and foremost is the loss of a sense of responsibility by the head of the house - the father - in too many homes.

2. Too many unplanned pregnancies, resulting in babies being rejected. These little ones are rejected at birth and feel that way for the rest of their lives, if there is no intervention.

3. Too many single parents, especially on the part of the mother.

4. Moral decay.

Plan of action: There is an urgent need for training and placement of much more social workers to stem the problem.

I am, etc.,

Sandra Bailey-Dixon

Sandy Bay District

May Pen PO

Clarendon