here in Bermuda as well as in New Jersey. Ms Robinson feels that through her experiences, living both here and abroad, has made her a diverse individual.

This has forced her to recognise the differences in the two cultures and encouraged her to appreciate them. She grew up in Spanish Point with her grandparents. Every summer when she came back she enjoyed swimming, playing with the neighbourhood children, boating and eating mussel pie. At the end of the summer she would return to New Jersey burnt like a chicken, and with highlighted hair.

She said: "Studying literature gave some insight into the ways that people view their own society, and I began to appreciate Bermuda's most important natural resource -- its people.'' She emphasised the "incredible beaches, the clear skies and the lush vegetation''.

Bermuda has many benefits. Some people do not recognise what is right in front of them unless someone points it out to them. Bermuda is a very attractive place, like the author mentioned. It has clean, clear water, a beautiful blue sky and soft pink sand along the beaches.

Many Bermudians do not realise our country is unique.

Florida has beaches, but Daytona Beach does not have pink sand nor clear water. Not only do we have appealing attractions to the tourists, but we also have a friendly community. You cannot travel and find many people who are willing to give you directions to your destination or smile and speak to you when you pass them on the street. We as Bermudians do not acknowledge these things because we experience it everyday. We need to focus on what we have instead of what we do not.

I appreciate Bermuda. About three years ago I did not realise how much I love to live here rather than abroad.

When I was 14 I was forced to move away with my mother. I did not like it at all. I was miserable the entire time. It was when I was away that I noticed all the things that the author was talking about. You did not have such a conglomeration of attractive things around.

There were only roads, highways and more roads and highways. I could not go swimming unless it was in a pool that was saturated with chlorine that burned your eyes, and I could not take a relaxing walk around the neighbourhood because outside is a major, busy street.

When I returned I was happy to be back. There were friendlier people and a safer environment. I like to go away and shop, but I do not wish to remain there for a long period of time, going away is enjoyable for a little vacation, but soon enough I want to come back home.

Living here in Bermuda has been the best years of my life and I would not trade that for anything. I know that this country has its share of problems, but no mater where you go you will never find a perfect place. I realise what Bermuda has to offer and I like what I see.

Writing about this topic makes me reflect on the saying: "You never know what you've got until it's gone'', meaning I never stopped to realise how much I enjoy staying here on this island with all my friends and family, until I had to move away. Now that I am back I appreciate what I do have here and think twice before I say any negative comments about this island! By Shelle Thompson No caption