To give or not to give

THE EDITOR, Madam:

It is better to give than to receive is considered by many as an adage which transcends both time and geographical boundaries. For others, that statement may be viewed as some sort of cliché.

During the Yuletide season, many – if not most workers at all levels in Jamaica – are expecting some sort of extra or tip.

Many of our unsung heroes who help in keeping our communities clean are also unwittingly or even consciously demanding their holiday bonus from residents. One can expect the perennial shout at the gate during collection prior to Christmas or shortly after asking indirectly for the Christmas bonus.

These workers must, however, consider that the coffers can be empty at times and many of us just cannot make gold using straws perpetually. Bills and other commitments must be catered to so that we can keep the country going.

One can further argue that by virtue of paying taxes we have already contributed or paid for such services.

We appreciate the work that you do but please also remember that we are all facing an economic crisis and if we can give, we will and will not be coerced into doing so.

MIKHAIL A. GRAHAM