TCI, 2023 Hope: The Most Powerful Force

#TurksandCaicos, December 29, 2023 – There is plenty of good in the Turks and Caicos Islands, including developments that have kept hope alive for better days ahead. But as we look around the world, there is no denying that we’ve had another year filled with tumult, uncertainty, pain, and violence that included some on our own soil.

As 2023 winds down and we look forward to the New Year ahead, there is little indication that these troublesome and dangerous violent trends around the world will abate anytime soon.

Can we find any solace in the fact that most eras of any meaningful duration encompass injustices and instability? But there is still hope.

Let’s set aside politics for a moment. I’m convinced that we all can recognize that even as we continue to face immense challenges, we have made great strides toward addressing calamities our ancestors took as inevitable — such as the Covid-19 disease (thank you, vaccines), implementation of new programs like unemployment benefits (thank you, National Insurance Board), and some high level discussion on the need to restore our constitutional rights as a self-governing nation.

It certainly disturbs our conscience with these relentless acts of violence, some immediate and others endemic. Wherever we seem to turn, there is pain, heartache and disorientation that strike our family, friends, and neighbors here and abroad. These include struggles with health, financial stability, rising cost of living, senseless deaths, and poverty in some communities.

We can tally all that is wrong, but does it do us any good? As Turks Islanders, it is important to try to see our present time in a wider arc of history. Based on how far we have come over the years, it can remind us that moments of peril do eventually get resolved and we are still blessed.

While much of what is taking place is beyond our control, that doesn’t mean we are helpless because we still have a voice. It is incumbent upon us as fellow human beings and leaders, regardless of nationality, to find new ways to keep pushing forward.

We must lift each other up, because for centuries, our unity is born of our common struggles.

Don’t be afraid to say, “This is wrong” or “That’s unfair” and then turn that passion into a rallying cry for change. Furthermore, we must be the driver of social change and move beyond superficial social media expressions.

Yes indeed the country has experienced setbacks, and there remains much work to be done, but overall progress has been made. Embracing adaptation to changes, both in the private sector and government, some not necessarily in our best interest, is a testament to our resilience.

We should also keep in mind we are not alone with these fears and sadness and many in this world feel them far more up close and personal, from religious persecutions to racial and ethnic hatred.

Throughout the year, we gratefully honor those in the public service such as our dedicated law enforcement officers and medical personnel who tirelessly and selflessly give their devotion and energy to protecting and caring for our families regardless of the risk.

Their commitment is driven by love, their sense of duty and necessity of the situations which is greatly appreciated.

Looking forward to year 2024, we ought to constantly remind ourselves that we are defined by the ideals we share and the good we hold in common, and the tolerance of our differences.

As we struggle to find our footing in a time of division among our people, despite all the challenges, we must look back with solemn appreciation.

Let’s pursue forward thinking, steadiness, and a stalwart belief in hope for these beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.

My heartfelt wishes to you and your family for a safe, restful and joyful year ahead.

Cheers!

Ed Forbes