Island

I am the daughter of an immigrant from this beautiful island. It’s  been many years since I’ve laid eyes on this beautiful island. I remember  the beautiful golden sands of Negril beach, walking around Montego Bay area  and hearing the sounds of sweet reggae being played. I also remember the mountains, shacks and more deprived areas of the island also, the police corruption which I experienced myself as a tourist to the island.

 I remember  eating rich and delicious  island foods such as plantains, ackee and salted fish, jerk chicken , callao and drinking plenty of carrot juice my mouth waters at the thought! Sipping the island’s local beer Red Stripe at silly o’clock in the day, in the blazing hot sun relaxing, people watching. I remember the mosquito  bites also now that was painful as I had soooooooooooooo many.

I remember how I  could walk out so far into the Caribbean sea from  Negril’s beach, before the water would reach my hips it was so strange to me.  I love this land, I love this island and I hope one day to go back and show my son this beautiful island.

National Anthem of Jamaica 

Eternal Father bless our land

Guide us with Thy mighty hand

Keep us free from evil powers

Be our light through countless hours

To our leaders, Great Defender,

Grant true wisdom from above

Justice, truth be ours forever

Jamaica, land we love

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica, land we love.

Teach us true respect for all

Stir response to duty’s call

Strengthen us the weak to cherish

Give us vision lest we perish

Knowledge send us, Heavenly Father,

Grant true wisdom from above

Justice, truth be ours forever

Jamaica, land we love

Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica, land we love.

It’s interesting I was born and raised in London, do I consider myself English –  well with 33 years here yes I do, but I don’t ever forget my heritage and culture.If I was stuck on a deserted island what would I need with me.

• My  2 year old son
• A pen and note pad
• Bob Marley’s Greatest hits and a CD player, so my son and I could dance and sing to them, as we do most Sundays. Just like my mama did with me growing up.

Jamaica the carib island  I love!