Dear Pastor,

I have a word of advice for all Jamaicans. I do believe we spend more time complaining than giving thanks to our Creator for what we have. Jamaica is not the most organised country in the world, but it's not the worst either. We have a great culture that is coveted by people everywhere. I think we need to stop looking over the fence thinking that the grass is as green as it looks.

I was born and raised in Jamaica and I migrated to Toronto a few years ago. I wanted to offer my brothers and sisters some hope in knowing that the waiting times at the hospitals are long everywhere. I have been to the emergency ward at hospitals here and waited for up to six hours. I took my mom to the emergency and had to leave after spending five hours and we still hadn't seen a doctor. Another gentleman died beside her before receiving medical attention. I don't want you all to think that I am the only one, who had this kind of experience and, believe it or not, no one cursed the doctors or the hospital. If you are sick, you wait. If you can't wait, leave. Doctors and medical staff are in short supply everywhere. So, take it easy on each other.

Yes, Jamaicans like to relax even at work, but the way to go is to encourage the hospital staff. Don't curse them. Try not to turn our hospitals into a market- place. Consider the elderly and let's work through this together. Let's show more support and love. You might get a heart attack while cursing right in the emergency room. At least our kids can now see a doctor for free. Let's be patient with the government, support the move and show more love.

Let's be positive about life. I tell you all one more thing. Everybody loves Jamaica and would love to visit the country on a regular basis, but the crime thing is a turn off. Some people are afraid to even visit old friends. Let's clean up our house, defend righteousness and peace. Remember we are ONE. Be blessed.

P., Toronto, Canada

Dear P.,

Thanks for sharing your experience with readers of this column. God bless you and God bless Jamaica.

Pastor