Youth is wasted on the young

Forging our future: Embracing the participation, contribution and talents of our older persons

IT IS often said that youth is wasted on the young. This age-old adage underscores the remarkable contribution that so many of our senior citizens continue to make to nation building, even as they age with grace and dignity.

So, as we celebrate Senior Citizens’ Week, we salute the many who have remained champions of critical causes, resilient and determined to press on with the mission of creating a better Jamaica for all of us.

Many have raised strong families and have given a lifetime of service to communities, even while pursuing notable careers.

Retired, but working through charities and other voluntary endeavours, through the Church and other programmes, giving more to schools and civic organisations – we owe so much to our senior citizens.

PAVING THE WAY

Our elders have paved the way for today’s generation to enjoy the fruits of their labour. Many of the longstanding business brands, the established laws of our land, our systems of healthcare and education, and so many of the things we have come to know, love and even take for granted are the result of the innovation, determination and hard work of our seniors.

Today, many of our elders continue to sacrifice, taking very little for themselves so their children and grandchildren may have enough. We have seen example after example of the many extended hands of kindness to those in need, even while they struggled to make ends meet.

The years have served to sharpen their talents and make them wiser and far more discerning of better life choices. Hence in these latter years, through well-honed skills, refined talents, and priceless life experiences, their contribution is of greater value.

I wish every one of our seniors a most enjoyable week of activities and every blessing going forward. PETER PHILLIPS Leader of the Opposition