Jamaica is a developing country, there should be meaningful conversations on our streets, among our people, about improving Jamaica. However, many such conversations often deteriorate into quarrels. Discussing Jamaica's improvement in conversation emotes such anger from our people, that I personally fear discussing it with persons unknown to me.

This fear, however, has forced me to write my opinions. I cherish the emotions that such arguments invoke. I find myself fuelled by the emotions, but driven by intellect; driven by an intellect that assures me that change within society is possible.

We, as a people, have become infected by what I call the 'saviour from without' syndrome. An infection that causes us, as individuals, to cry for help when we need none. A sickness that hinders our meaningful progress. A disease that drives us to blame successive governments for problems that we as individuals create. This sickness, however, can be cured. Its effects can be lessened and its infestation can be reduced.

Let us answer some real questions: Why would a 15 year old take a knife to school? Why would an argument about a cellphone deteriorate into a physical fight? What influences the social behaviour of our nationals on an individual basis? Television springs to mind. The influence this medium has on our nation can neither be underestimated nor ignored. Adults and children alike; labourites and socialists alike; blacks, whites, Chinese and Indians alike, are affected and influenced by TV.

Let individuals that care about the nation fill the void that the overwhelming amount of international programming has created. The void that leaves us 'thirsty'; 'thirsty' for programming that reflects our culture, our attitudes and our dreams for our collective future. Let individuals fill this void by producing cartoons, short television movies, and other local-based programmes. No more waiting for government; no more begging the don. Let us as individuals use our education, creativity and ambition to push our ideas into reality.

I am, etc.,

GARY THOMPSON

garyothompson@yahoo.com

Via Go-Jamaica