This is the first in a series on climate change issues, especially as they relate to the Caribbean and the tropics. There is so much to say, to try to explain and to understand about climate change. But I agree with this recent observation by Barbara Walker, co-owner of Hotel Mockingbird Hill, a Jamaican eco-resort: “Climate change is the defining issue of the 21st century.” If we don’t face up to it, our survival on this Planet, even relatively short-term, is in doubt. I am not going to be alarmist, however. I plan to let you know about some developments in the region – and efforts to adapt to this reality. Because adapt we must. Change we must. And NOW.

Deputy Principal of UWI Mona Campus Professor Ishenkumba Kahwa browses through the publication.

On June 11, I attended the launch of a publication at the University of the West Indies…

The past does not matter
for it was only preparation
for where you are today.

Put no more rocks
in that sack
on your back.
Is not the burden
heavy enough already?
Better yet, lay down
that load
move with swift feet
to the healing room
where serenity is
handed out in large doses
and life is lived
as it was meant to be.

The world is crying out for help
Empty stomachs scream in pain
Listen lovers of hoarded gold
Give and turn your hearts
Into priceless jewels

The world is crying out for help
Ignorant hatred fogs the world
You who claim to love the truth
Speak out loud and clear the air
Do it even if you stand alone

The world is crying out for help
The sky is raining blood
They hear their mother wailing loud
Why don’t her children
Heed her call?

The world is crying out for help
She cries for there is always hope
As long as there’s a heart that loves
The odds are in favour
Of our world

…..

Image found at: http://yesconnie.com/

Antique Japanese Tea Urns

Fantastic portrait of three antique Japanese tea urns used by tea merchants to transport and store tea. In addition, Sepia toned for that vintage look and feel.