An appeal to the leaders and people of Jamaica

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In light of the deeply tragic situation brought about by Hurricane Melissa, I humbly appeal to our leaders and citizens to remember a fundamental truth: the true wealth of a nation is not measured in gold, silver, or material possessions, but in the knowledge, wisdom, uprightness, and integrity of its leaders and its people. There could be no better moment than now for these virtues to be clearly demonstrated.

As communities across the island struggle to cope with loss, destruction, fear, and uncertainty, we are called upon to rise above selfishness, corruption, and personal gain. The way we receive, distribute, and manage charitable goods, financial contributions, food supplies, and medical assistance will speak volumes about who we are as a people.

It is imperative that those entrusted with the responsibility of handling donated items and relief funds do so with transparency, honesty, and love for their people. There must be no misappropriation of funds, no hoarding of supplies, and no selling of items that were freely given to aid the suffering. Such practices which have stained our nation’s past during previous disasters must never be repeated. To take advantage of the pain of others is a betrayal not only of our people, but of our national identity and our responsibility.

Instead, let us act with unity, using this time of hardship as an opportunity to rebuild not just our infrastructure but our character as a nation. Let our leaders, soldiers, police officers, civil servants, churches, and ordinary citizens work together, guided by fairness and compassion. Let assistance be distributed based on genuine need not political affiliation, popularity, or personal connections. Let the elderly, the poor, the disabled, the homeless, and the most vulnerable among us receive care with dignity and respect.

As a Christian nation, we must also remember the words of Yeshua the Christ, who reminded us that when we give to the least among us, we give unto Him. It is in moments like these when resources are scarce and suffering is abundant that our love for our fellow man must guide our actions. Compassion must guide our decisions, and empathy must guide our responses.

Let this horrible tragedy also become a great testimony. Let it be said by generations to come that, in our darkest hour, Jamaica chose integrity over greed, unity over division, kindness over corruption, and hope over despair. May we be remembered not for the hurricane that struck us, but for the strength, honesty, and love with which we rose together to overcome it.

ARTHUR PHIDD