Letter of the Day | Coming together, like the colours of Jamaican flag

THE EDITOR, Madam:

For 63 years, the Jamaican National flag has been a symbol of pride, hope, and resilience, for Jamaicans themselves as well as people all over the world. Being one of the few flags in the world that does not have red, white, or blue in it, the flag of Jamaica always stands tall as it tells the story of the Jamaican people – my people.

Jamaica has been through many adversities in the past whether it be socially, economically, politically, or any other sector that affects societal affairs. Recently, our country was hit by Hurricane Melissa. Many schools, churches, businesses, and homes were affected or destroyed, yet the Jamaican spirit remains strong as our people seek to rebuild again with hope.

All over the world, people have been chipping in as well to help with the rebuilding process. The non-profit organisation that I’m a part of here in Connecticut, BlessBackJamdown Missions, Inc, and various other social clubs have come together to assist with the recovery and rebuilding efforts. It serves as a reminder that Jamaica is well loved.

The colour black in our flag symbolises the strength and creativity of our people. Green represents the hope that the Jamaican people have as well as the rich agricultural resources of our land. Gold represents the natural beauty of the Caribbean sun and the wealth of our nation. In my eyes, the colours of our flag do not only carry deep symbolic meaning to Jamaican nationals but it is certainly an inspiration to anyone who strives to become all that God created them to be even if everything may not be perfect in their lives. They can overcome whatever the challenge is if they only put their minds to it with God’s help.

The Jamaican flag will always be a source of hope as it serves as a reminder that we can bounce back and rebuild even amid the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. Together, we’ll build back stronger. Out of many, we are one! We’ve been through many adversities and challenges throughout our history, and hurricane Melissa is just another obstacle that we’ll rise above! Jamaica will rise again!

RENE LAMBERT