As we close another chapter in the history books of Jamaica and open a new one, though we are most appreciative that we have lived to see another year, there are some resolutions that we must commit to as a people determined to make Jamaica the greatest place on earth.

While 2008 brought us many positive moments - moments that allowed us as Jamaicans to stand tall - there are so many things that we must resolve to change. And, as stakeholders we must unite to achieve the change.

Politicians must lead

Our politicians must lead the charge. They must be mindful that the people of Jamaica should take centre stage over partisan politics, hence their modus operandi must clearly send the signal that the objective is to unite and not divide the country. They must commence the process to make tribalism a thing of the past.

Our media, particularly the electronic media, must now resolve to emphasise the positives that in the past were clouded with the negatives. Most Jamaicans are tired of being fed a diet of negativism and have consciously and in some instances unconsciously set up mental blocks. Our media houses owe it to Jamaicans to set the stage for positive thinking in 2009.

Turn a new page

Our entertainers, in particular, the DJs, must leave the dirt and grime behind and resolve to turn a new page - a page that will see positive messages being enunciated to uplift and not to destroy the minds of the vulnerable. Or, as a people, we must send the signal that force the change or enhance their extinction.

Finally, as Jamaicans we must make the resolution to be our brothers' keeper. We need to protect our children, the elderly and our women. Too many criminal acts were perpetuated against these very vulnerable persons of our society in 2008 and we must unequivocally send the message in 2009 that we will not tolerate these acts. We need to cooperate with our security forces to ensure that the crime monster is tamed in 2009 enabling us to enjoy that feeling of security as we go about our lawful business.

With all the negative predictions for the global economy, our theme for 2009 must be one of unity and love.

I am, etc.,

PAT BIGNALL

wilbig@cwjamaica.com