Summer Review - Jamaica's Independence

 Independence. Independent.Independence Day.
Independence is defined  as "freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like..."
July 4th is symbolic and patriotic for so many reasons, it is the day that  America celebrates its independence from Britain and all things Red,White and Blue are represented proudly. 237 years  of freedom, the right to stand firm and make their own decisions as a  democracy. The right to vote,freedom of speech, the right to the pursuit of happiness and equal opportunity.  Every independent country  has this  nationalistic pride which burns brightest on the day they celebrate, their independence,their birthday if you will:-) It's usually the day we focus on how much we have accomplished and how proud we are that those before us fought for the independence we now celebrate.

As Jamaican we tend to be a little more enthusiastic even though we are such a small island. August 6th  is our Independence day and  we were ecstatic to be turning 50 last  year. We shouted, celebrated,danced and used every  opportunity to remind every co worker,colleague,class mate,strap hanger,bus driver,pilot,captain, pet and basically anyone who could see or hear  that  we are Jamaican.I couldn't  have been  more  proud  nor have I ever worn so much  black,green and gold clothing:-)

Independence celebration  in Jamaica has always  been  more than just a day. It  has always been a month long celebration which includes; festival songs,festival queens from each parish,flower shows,Denbeigh agricultural show,Devon house,fashion shows,Grand Gala's, Junkanno, authentic Jamaican dishes prepared the traditional way, maypole,folk music,Miss Lou and Ring Ding on JBC and a host of other cultural  festivities.
This year we turned 51 and the festivities continued. Although  we are  far  away, August 6th  always  has a special place in our hearts and in our memories.Their is always a smile on our face or a twinkle in our eye as we reflect on a independence month  memory that  we have held on to and continue to treasure throughout the years and long after we have left home.

So, the next time  you are with  your Jamaican  friend or you see some one dressed in black, green and gold and it's August 6th, take the time to wish them Happy  independence day!!!!   They will thank you  for it, especially  if they are far away  from home.

Much Love &Walk Good!!!