Appreciation must be not only in Our Minds

The calypso art form created by the Caribbean experience has given us some memorable treasures in song. Because the island of Tobago is an integral part, albeit a junior partner in the sovereign two-island state of Trinidad and Tobago, its contributions to this art form is often subsumed under the context of “Trini kaiso”. It is also not well known, or remembered, that under British colonialism, Tobago was at one time lumped as part of the Windward Islands. As a typical Caribbean Island, Tobago has played its part in its contributions to the Caribbean’s outstanding musical legacy- the calypso. Among the greatest exponents from that island is the evergreen Calypso Rose and the late Mighty Shadow. But another outstanding kaiso bard from that island, Johnny King, provided a calypso classic, the words of which have immortal meaning.

That classic is entitled “Appreciation” and today is very appropriate as we mark the first anniversary of the passage of hurricane Beryl. That storm struck our multi-island state on July,1, 2024, creating massive destruction and damage in the southern Grenadines in particular.

The lyrics of that calypso have resonance to the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines particularly in the aftermath of the dreaded hurricane. Not just Beryl, mind you, but as we also remember the kindness, solidarity and love extended to us over the years while we struggled to recover from a succession of natural disasters.

Hurricanes, floods, drought and eruptions of the Soufriere Volcano have been a forceful reminder to us of our own vulnerability. We have survived, and recovered, thanks to the resilience of our people, but that alone would not have been enough to put us back on our feet. For all that we have done ourselves, we must say

THANKS, and SHOW APPRECIATION to all those who assisted us in our still ongoing recovery. The amazing display of solidarity by countries near and far must never be forgotten and that is why Johnny King’s unforgettable calypso must continue to be, as he says in his lyrics, “always on our mind”. That appreciation must be extended to the Government, NEMO, VINLEC, the numerous volunteers, and the external donors, including not just governments and international institutions but also private, foreign entrepreneurs such as the Canouan-based Ian Wace. Many Vincentians who reside abroad sprang into action immediately after the hurricane struck rounding up supplies and other forms of assistance to aid in the relief and recovery, and ensuring that these supplies got to where they were needed.

Taking time to remember in the activities held on Canouan, Union Island and Mayreau on Tuesday, was one such necessary part of our journey to recovery and expression of appreciation, and solidarity with those who lost loved ones in the terror that was Beryl.

There is one worrying aspect of the herculean efforts of support, not just in times of disaster but also on a day- to-day level where many labelled as poor, and others not necessarily so classified are concerned, and which should give us pause. It is the tendency to slip into a state of dependency. Too many persons are increasingly becoming reliant on the government to do almost everything- even in burying their dead.

This growing dependency is not a healthy thing, and while the government must be complimented for its efforts, we must be reminded that we all must play our part- do whatever we can. The government is there to help, we should not expect it to take up our bed for us. Our appreciation must include not just thanks- and requests for more, but a greater effort by us all to bear our share of the burden as far as we are able- and moreso, as we navigate life though another hurricane season.