Have A Peaceful Easter

In many parts of the Christian world the Easter Season is regarded with much sombreness. It recalls the passion, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ and is therefore observed as the most solemn period in the Christian calendar. Sadly, however, it does not always stop the violence around us as truce breakers, rebels and criminals continue their assaults and the sound of battle is heard wherever the hot spots exist. But we must hope that someday the weapons of war will be laid down giving way to the joy of peace and love.

If the Christian message still has much significance to us today – and hopefully it does - it behoves all of us, wherever we move and have our being on planet earth, to be ambassadors for, and examples of, peace, goodwill and right-living. It is when we play our part in our own corner of the world that we can truly contribute to global security, understanding and respect for the dignity of life.

Traditionally, Anguillians have always looked forward to the Easter Season, its religious significance and of course the feasts of cakes and potato puddings and the enjoyment of the Easter Monday holiday. Those were part of the general exceptionally good days when family values, community relationships and discipline were of the highest standard. It is out of those times that many of our people have emerged and it is on their friendliness and way of life that our upscale tourist industry is still being partly marketed. This is a tribute to the island and it is all the more important why we should stamp out crime in all of its forms, report illegal activities to the police and help safeguard the name of Anguilla and its economic base.

There have been no disturbing matters of misbehaviour in our society in recent days and it is hoped that tranquillity will continue to abound in our island. We cannot afford to have the spate of violence and crime that occurred over the past months, because the damaging effects are far too great and there is no room in our small community for such. We join with others on the island in looking forward to the arrest, conviction and punishment of those guilty of the crimes and the strengthening of the security and peace of the island.

We trust that everyone in Anguilla, visitor, resident and islander alike, will have a happy Easter and that nothing untoward would mar the season.