EDITORIAL

In light of the current state of Barbados’ economy, it is more necessary than ever for each person to determine ways in which it can be improved. Significant adjustments to organisations and our personal lives have been made and many have had to review their internal expenses and adjust budgets during these difficult times.

 

On the other side of the coin, however, it is still somewhat disheartening to listen to some Barbadians and observe their behaviour as they deal with the challenges we face. Some have developed a tendency to complain about the little things rather than try to improve their overall situation. They continuously call on Government to improve the country’s situation while not understanding the concept that everyone working together builds a country.

 

Some, instead of trying to determine ways to make do in this situation, prefer to complain to the Government about their inability to afford privileges like annual holiday travel and overseas shopping trips, while others choose to live above their means and strain an already elasticised budget. All in all, we need to do better to weather the current economic climate.

 

Our ancestors have established a long tradition of “cutting and contriving” and laid the foundation for our comparatively lavish lifestyles. That is pride and industry. In fact, we can look to China as another example. On the BBC news recently, it was reported that the Chinese – even though many are more prosperous than 

in the early 1980s – save far more than they earn.

 

In the case of Barbados, the majority of our great grandparents had no formal education, but used thrift and survival skills to safeguard their families during times that were equally as hard as things now or even harder. This current generation benefits from “free” education and should be well placed to ride out the current challenges. The difference seems to be in the mindset; a failure to recognise that if we do not curb our lavish spending habits, especially on non-essential items, then we do ourselves and the entire country a disservice. The behaviour has filtered down to the youth and many are not understanding the value of hard work nor do they properly grasp the struggles of their forefathers.

 

The social services are already stretched almost to breaking point, but government, to its credit, continues to ensure that, particularly in the area of housing and basic needs, people, particularly the elderly, are not disadvantaged.

 

For those citizens who have not yet done so, the time has come for an assessment of personal finances, and a determination to live responsibly, within one’s means. This is the time to give service above and beyond each consumer’s expectations, and ensure the survival and success of the country.

 

On the eve of the celebration of our 50th anniversary of Independence, let us work towards improvement in ourselves as individuals, and as a country. Let us come together as a nation to show the world what we have to offer with much deserved pride and recognition.