This is an important week for Jamaicans. They will be celebrating Emancipation and Independence. Emancipation Day was this last Saturday and Independence Day is this coming Thursday. Today at mass we celebrated Jamaican freedom and sovereignty. Father Gaston talked about all that we have to be thankful for and all the beauty that is Jamaica. I started to lose interest in what Father had to say after those first few words. But, those words were enough to occupy my thoughts for the remainder of his 45-minute homily.
I started to think of all the beauty that I’ve already experienced in just one week. The first thought that came to mind was the importance of music in this culture. Music is everywhere and it is beautiful. It moves the people here. I can’t help but be moved by it as well. I am in love with the sound of the bongos! I am going to speak to the musicians and ask if I can be involved on Sunday mass. I then started to think of all the natural beauty in Jamaica. I was thinking of the drive up to King Weston and how there is one point during the trek up the mountain where the view is spectacular. Don’t get me wrong, there are beautiful views of the Blue Mountains that surround the people in King Weston. But, there is one particular view where, on a clear day, one can see the north shore. Today was one of those days and I could actually see the whiteness of the waves as they crashed into the shore. The people in King Weston do not have much, but they do have the land. Mangos fall from the trees in abundance and a fresh banana is out of this world! The goats, cows, pigs and dogs enjoy the fruits of the land as I ride along the mountain roads to King Weston. Oh yes, and the fresh, sweet air of the mountains is another thing to be thankful for.
I am also starting to really appreciate the Jamaican people as well. They are hard working, kind, generous and beautiful people. They have made us feel welcome and at home.
So, this week I will be thankful for all the beauty that surrounds me each day. And be thankful for each day I have.
Peace and love,
Matt
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