Monthly Archives: August 2024
FMM 8 30 2024 Better to Give
“We may give without loving, but we cannot love without giving.” ~ Bernard Meltzer. When I moved to South Florida in the late 70’s, it was the third big cultural shift I had made in my young (ish) life. My first move had been the most dramatic, emigrating from England to Jamaica at the age […]
FMM 8 23 2024 Keep the Faith
“As I get older, the more I stay focused on the acceptance of myself and others, and choose compassion over judgment and curiosity over fear.” ~ Tracee Ellis Ross. I have a confession to make. On Friday mornings I get up with my phone, with notes to myself as my guide for what I will […]
FMM 8 16 2024 One Drop
“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” ~ Marcus Garvey. I became a teenager at a time of racial upheaval in the USA. It coincided with the growing consciousness (‘woke’-ness) in Jamaica of young people of African descent. Rastafarianism and awareness of African culture […]
FMM 8 9 2024 Better than she Ought to Be
“I say be careful what you teach the little childrenMake sure a nuh something to hurt themMind what yuh say to mi sistaShe could be the next Prime Minister” ~ Tony Rebel. My maternal great-grandfather was a self-made man. He left school early (as they did in those days) to be a bricklayer’s apprentice. He […]
FMM 8 2 2024 What’s Love got to do With it?
“Father, fatherWe don’t need to escalateYou see, war is not the answerFor only love can conquer hate.” ~ Marvin Gaye. Twenty-five years ago, before my father started to show evidence of cognitive decline, one of my nephews got married. Three generations of the family were represented, and my father, although he no longer officiated at […]