Editorial
It's Time To Celebrate
Although Thanksgiving is not officially celebrated as a holiday in the Cayman Islands, it has coincided this year with a festive feeling which has captured this country.
Thanksgiving in America is traditionally a time to offer thanks, of family gatherings and holiday meals, but these festivities will be celebrated vicariously in the Cayman Islands this weekend.
Despite the few bumps in the road, it has so far been another wonderful year for this country and there is much to be thankful for and to celebrate in the Cayman Islands.
Part of that celebration has been evidenced from the financial sector which has indicated that it is encouraged by the level of cooperation from the present government. This has led to their firm support for the manner in which this present administration is handling the country's affairs internally and externally.
The Chamber of Commerce has, by official letter, congratulated the Government for its decision not to sign on to the European Union's Draft Directive on the Taxation of Savings Income.
The Cayman Islands Merchants Association, under the leadership of Mr. Al. T. Thompson who recently met with Leader of Government Business the Hon. McKeeva Bush, has been taking a positive look at how to keep more business in the Cayman Islands.
It is understood that Mr. Bush has informed them about initiatives with other trading partners in the region and how such alliances will be of benefit to them.
Every effort is being made to keep the celebration alive. People seem to be gearing up for spending over the Christmas holidays.
Tourism continues to perform well and private
sector investments and expansion are increasing.
Government is developing a relationship of open dialogue and sharing
of ideas that should result in the harnessing of energies and
resources to build and develop the country.
The developments that are evident around us are but just the beginning. What is being done now will surely be multiplied as this feel-good factor and developmental spirit takes root in various parts of the country.
As people develop and continue to improve, it is important that this change and this celebration of which we speak, also be reflected in what we do and how we relate to one another.
We cannot build together if we do not live together; and we cannot live together if we do not love each other.
Therefore, this feeling of celebration should not only be exhibited around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Throughout the year, all of us must strive even harder to get rid of the acrimony that creeps into homes, schools, churches, offices, organisations and politics.
The lights that have so beautifully illuminated trees, building and houses across the island in recent days should demonstrate the cheer we feel in our hearts at the upliftment the country has been experiencing.
Indeed, these lights should also signal the gratification of the people that the Cayman Islands continues to celebrate its proud place as a leading developing country in the Caribbean.