I have observed that we continue to play only the first stanza of our National Anthem at official functions. At the National Heroes Day ceremony at King's House, the military band played only the first stanza of the Anthem at the opening of the ceremony. Consequently, many Jamaicans are ignorant of the words of the song. Many persons use the words 'guide us' as opposed to 'guard us' in singing the song. At some sporting events the anthem is sung Jamaica BOOM! Jamaica BOOM! as if we are about to explode or implode.

As a nation we have to show much greater respect to our national symbols, as a generation not long past worked assiduously to bequeath these national symbols to us, and so we owe them a debt of gratitude to pass them to the next generation with civility and honour. The exploits of our athletes on the international arena lifts our spirit each time we hear the National Anthem being played and we feel proud to be Jamaican.

I am, etc.,

Carlton Smith

childrenb@hotmail.com

Kingston 20