Johnny Barnes, who leaves a touch of sunshine wherever he goes, represents the very core of the true Bermudian spirit. When we talk of the Bermudian spirit, most of us think of being friendly and helpful to those around you.

What makes the genuine Bermudian spirit something to celebrate, is that it has nothing to do with race, creed or religion. Johnny Barnes is far more than just a popular character waving and greeting people every morning, sometimes in weather most of us are reluctant to be caught in, even in the comfort of our cars.

Many of us, if we care to admit it, have shaken our heads at times while responding to his greeting, while under our breath, we ask, "how does he do it ... every day?" Part of the answer might be the fact that Johnny Barnes, who works without salary, feels a need for everyone to receive a small portion of kindness, at least at the beginning of their day.

Far more than that, this man believes that God has placed him here to spread friendliness with a smile, rain, wind or shine.

In recent years Bermuda has changed a great deal in this area, and the warmth which made Bermuda known worldwide as one of the friendliest places on earth, has faded.

Yes, we still have very friendly Bermudians and we should be very proud of that, but you do not have to look far, to see how some negative outside influences have chipped away at traditional values, making us a bit more isolated as a society. We have to be almost programmed to be friendly when in the old days it was the natural thing to do.

The changing face of Bermuda, with a more diverse community, has perhaps had its impact as well. The world community is changing and many countries are experiencing the challenge of accepting new cultures into their social landscape.

Ironically, many of our great entertainers of the past also carried the true Bermudian spirit because they had to overlook unacceptable social conditions and still smile when they hit the stage to welcome our visitors.

It was that same true Bermudian spirit exhibited by Johnny Barnes today, that kept them going in those days.

All history has dark moments that are painful to recall, but in many cases out of that darkness, great people have emerged despite setbacks, to raise the flag of dignity and respect that always triumphs over adverse conditions.

Although we know the clock can never be turned back, we also know that if we as a society turn our backs on time-proven values, such as respect for one another, and holding up honesty and truth as a guidepost for future generations, Bermuda will move forward despite new challenges in a more competitive world.

Johnny Barnes' greetings go out to anyone coming his way regardless of ethnicity or any other differences. It is a lesson for all of us. Everyone is important and until we as Bermudians can return to sharing the blessings we have, the Bermuda we like to cheer about will be under threat.

In many of our service areas the traditional touch of friendliness has diminished considerably, although there are those who take pride in being polite and polished when dealing with the public. A shift in basic attitudes for various reasons is eroding our long-respected values.

Many countries probably wish they had a Johnny Barnes to keep the spirit of friendship and goodwill alive.

It is fitting to mention that this ambassador of goodwill just turned 85. His joy comes in knowing that Bermuda starts out with a few more smiles, because someone reached out to say, hello and have a great day. Congratulations to a wonderful Bermudian who makes us all proud.