February 13, 2008

Dear Sir,

It is very easy, and tempting, to be negative on these pages. We blow off steam on our pet peeves and trade rockets with those who disagree. It makes for good reading, and we are all guilty (I certainly am) of skimming over the 'tag day thanks' in search of a nice juicy complaint. It goes further, because often that search is focused on complaints with which we agree. Seeing our own opinions expressed by others feels good, but let me ask this: When was the last time a letter actually changed your opinion? And when was your better, generous side, encouraged by something you read?

Riding home late last night, on a dark stretch of road near Bailey's Bay, my bike ran out of gas. With no option but to start pushing, I approached a house with two or three shadowy figures hanging out by the wall. One of them asked if I was having a problem. Let's stop the action there a minute. White guy. Brand new bike. Far from home. Late. Dark. According to sentiments expressed in these pages, the legacy of our inescapable past should have weighed heavily on what followed. No help – or worse – offered, in an atmosphere of mutual suspicion or hostility. Because you have only to read the paper, or listen to the talk shows, to know that is the reality. A bit of a shame then, that my shadowy figure disappeared behind the house, came back with a gas can, and made sure I headed back toward Crawl station (open) and not on to Blue Hole (closed) to fill up and complete my journey home feeling very grateful indeed. Thank you guys! You know who you are.

And so this morning it has me thinking of a new challenge, which I'd like to share with everyone. It simply cannot be true that I am the only person on this Island who has good relations – and good experiences – with my neighbours. Just as it cannot be true that such experiences are of no importance, or no interest, to the reading public.

I know this letter risks being glossed over. So be it. It's not my best effort; it could be more exciting. But how about it, readers? How about sharing your positive news? Do it in style, make it fresh and entertaining, and maybe something strange will happen. Maybe we will start to skim the negative stuff – which is far from fresh – and seek out surprising, but heartening, news we did not think possible. Maybe, just maybe, we can unwrap our cosy prejudices, challenge our opinions, and find more to agree on. Life is not about stereotypes. Write a letter that proves it.

SUNNY SIDE UP

Hamilton Parish