A New Year’s glow

As the sun dipped below Jamaica’s western horizon and the Caribbean Sea caught its last glimmers, an unmistakable anticipation filled the air.

In communities across the island, from Kingston’s busy waterfront to the peaceful seafront of Black River and the sandy stretches of Montego Bay, Jamaicans prepared to welcome the New Year with light, sound, and shared intention. For decades, this annual moment punctuated by breathtaking fireworks at midnight and the spontaneous lighting of clappas by families has become a vibrant expression of renewal, hope, and human connection.

Organised displays such as the Urban Development Corporation’s Fireworks Festival have, for over 20 years, drawn large crowds to watch the night sky blossom in colour as the clock strikes twelve. Kingston, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and, most recently, Black River and Negril have shared in this collective spectacle, inviting communities island-wide to come together in celebration and resilience.

Yet beyond the visual splendour lies a deeper tradition rooted in reflection and renewal. Much like the Watch Night services held in churches across the island on December 31, spaces of prayer, contemplation, and thanksgiving for the year that was and blessings for the year ahead, the transitions into January represent an invitation to mindfully release what no longer serves us.

POWER OF WORDS

In this season of intention, we are reminded of the power of words. Chanting words with meaning can resonate within the body and mind, setting the tone for what we seek to cultivate. If you close your eyes each morning after waking and affirm your intentions, giving thanks for life, speaking words of encouragement, and anchoring yourself in gratitude, you lay a foundation for a focused and lifted spirit. Repeating these practices before resting each night reinforces clarity, resilience, and purpose.

As Sunday follows Saturday, we are afforded a sacred pause: a chance not only to reflect on our actions and thoughts of the past year but also to orient our hearts towards what we aspire to become. In a culture rich with communal celebration, let us also embrace the quieter celebration within honouring our journey, speaking with intention and acting worthy of our own approval.

Be strong. Be inspired. Be intentional. May this New Year be one of gratitude, peace, and meaningful growth.

Contributed by Dr Lorenzo Gordon, a diabetologist, internal medicine consultant, biochemist, and a history and heritage enthusiast. Send feedback to inspiring876@gmail.com.