Dear Sir,

In a world that seems increasingly divided, where individualism often overshadows the collective good, it is essential that we pause and reflect on the foundational values that once held our families, communities and nations together.

The spirit of togetherness — where kindness, compassion and mutual support were cornerstones of our daily lives — seems to be fading away, replaced by jealousy, indifference and, sadly, animosity among our own kin.

The Bible, a timeless guide, emphasises the importance of family as the bedrock of society. It teaches us to “honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12) and to love one another as Christ loved us (John 13:34). These principles remind us that the essence of family is rooted in love, respect and unity. When we lose sight of these values, we risk unravelling the very fabric of our communities.

Family is not merely a biological connection; it is the first community where we learn to care for one another, to share, to forgive and to support each other through life’s challenges. When family bonds weaken, the ripple effect can be felt across our neighbourhoods and, eventually, our nation. Siblings who do not speak, cousins who are strangers to one another, and family members who harbour resentment and jealousy create an environment of division. These divisions not only harm individual relationships but also weaken the collective strength of our communities.

We must actively work to restore the values that once made our families strong. This means choosing kindness over spite, understanding over judgment, and solidarity over selfishness. It means teaching our children the importance of family, encouraging them to know and love their relatives, and modelling these values in our own lives. We must prioritise building up our families rather than tearing them down.

A nation is only as strong as the families within it. When families are united, communities thrive. When communities thrive, nations prosper. Therefore, it is not just a personal responsibility but a collective one to ensure that the values of love, respect and unity are passed down to future generations.

Let us strive to be the generation that rekindles the flame of family values. Let us be the ones who choose to stand up for each other, to help each other, and to heal the rifts that divide us. In doing so, we will not only strengthen our families but also contribute to the building of a stronger, more compassionate nation.

In the book of Psalm 133:1: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

SHERVONNE CASH-HOLLIS

Hamilton Parish