The annual debate about the story of Barbados, ‘the little rock that could’ seems to have gained added momentum this year of the forty fourth anniversary. No doubt this is because of the increasingly dire reality of the global economic crisis added to the series of uncharacteristic challenges in the form of flooding, Tomas, and the loss of a loved prime minister, that our country has faced in recent months.
Even in ‘normal’ times, however, the debate about the developmental path that we have taken as a country has been an interesting, challenging and evasive story of stability, success and pride that has been realized very much against all the odds; contrary to established logic; and despite our best efforts to sabotage our success.
Listening to various panels discuss this topic every year at independence time has only served to reinforce the Bush Tea opinion that no one really understands what has happened to us as a country.
Clearly, our results are not a reflection of our outstanding productivity and ingenuity. Indeed one wonders how we could be weaker in these areas. In most of the normal measures, we have been punching way above our weight classification – but how….?
Well the bushman found the answer today.
The National Independence Service was excellent, moving, inspirational and timely.
Any country that would take the trouble to organize an annual National Independence Religious Service with all its leaders – from Governor General, Prime Minister, ministers, business leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, youth leaders and youth groups and to ask for God’s guidance, blessings and protection may indeed be on to something.
The Bushman also recalls the current government starting their term of office with a national ecumenical service at Kensington, and that previous administrations have generally sought the guidance and hand of the almighty in national affairs ….hmmmmm!!
It is written that “Except the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain that build it. Except the Lord keep the City, the watchman waketh – but in vain….” Ps 127,1
That verse certainly would explain the total chaos that we are seeing in the many jurisdictions which are known for their natural reserves, high productivity, great creativity and other assets that should guarantee their financial and other success……but hasn’t.
Does it also explain how a little rock could succeed if the rock leaders have generally sought the guidance of the Lord in their building? Does the Lord indeed keep the rock…?
Congratulations to the organizers.
