A bridge over troubled waters

WE SAT on opposite sides of the aisle of Gordon House. That aisle defines the separation between Government and the Opposition. Yet despite political differences, Easton and I were never divided. He was that Special Member of the

House of Representatives, whose life and contribution to nation building were separably inseparable.

Many were the heated debates across the aisle and Easton’s interventions were timely, robust and respectful. In his own inimitable style, he would defend his position with dignity, humility, a spirit of cordiality, and above all respect and appreciation for his colleagues and the people whom he represented. Simply put, he was on many occasions the ‘Bridge over Trouble Waters’, as heated debates oftentimes raged with hurricane intensity. I am glad for the opportunity to have served with Easton. Many were the enviable encomiums that were accorded to Easton. His was an admirable disposition; his was an indefatigable service to his fellowmen and country; his was an unquenchable passion for youth; his was a penchant for supporting worthy causes.

So, as we celebrate the life and legacy of this bespectacled son of the soil, let me put on record my own deep appreciation for the opportunity to have served with him and my abiding love for a true Jamaican.

As the flatterer of happy minds now dictates the longevity of his rest from earthly labours, may the roads to Heaven rise up to meet him, may the winds of comfort be always at his back, and until we meet again in God’s Parliament, where we will sit as one and work together on the same team, may God hold him in the palms of his hands. Walk good, my friend, and as Miss Lou would say, may ‘good duppy follow back a yuh’. LESTER ‘MIKE’ HENRY