
Unlike human beings, for whom 50 years is a signpost that the second half of the century may not be attained, a nation can count on a longer lifecycle. However it is human beings that make up a nation.
So the pertinent question is not where are we after 50 years but where do we want to be?
What kind of country and society will T&T be when she celebrates her centenary.
Isn’t it time we learn from our mistakes and put an end to repeating the same errors?
Reading the daily newspapers is such a dispiriting experience in this our 50th year.
But maybe that is the cross we must bear to fully understand our self, nation and society.
Where do we go from here T&T?
What are we leaving for the next generation and the generation after that?
To my mind, the contemplation is not if the Scott Ryder report is right or wrong or which group of politicians is more corrupt or insincere.
Could that be the problem?
Or should we focus on the intangible things that shape nationhood.
What are our values and characteristics? What are the things that matter most to us as a people?
What are the ideas that inspire and motivate us?
Are we happy? Do we have peace of mind?
Can we truly say every creed and race find an equal place or that we stand side by side islands of the blue Caribbean Sea. While we have come a long way since August 31, 1962 and there is much to be proud about, we should seek no comfort in self-satisfaction or complacency. T&T as a nation and society, has not fulfilled its true potential . Too many decisions appear to be informed by selfishness, greed or narrow insularity. We have allowed T&T to be manipulated by those who lack a big vision and dream for our nation and society. As we set sail for the next 50 years, may purposeful living, creativity, integrity, innovation, honesty, reliability, humility and selflessness reign supreme. God bless our nation. Happy and thoughtful 50th birthday T&T.
-Brian Lewis
Source: www.guardian.co.tt