Dear Editor,

My wife and I are owners of Marah's Variety Store in Rock Hall, St Andrew. I am 31 years old and we have a two-year-old daughter.

I read a lot and I've noticed that much in life is buying and selling - you name it, it's buying and selling. We started business on our second wedding anniversary, June 27, 2011, and we registered the business in December 2011. It was very difficult starting, but God led us through. At this time we are enduring losses but we understand because Marah's has gone from bitter to sweet.

Nothing will get me down because failure is the key to my success. I have been a security guard for eight and a half years without benefits. At Marah's we conduct good business principles, like one mainly used by Mr Lascelles Chin: giving back to your customers.

It's now difficult for us to pay our bills on time, because we don't have many items selling. We have many shelves but not enough goods; we are asking for help so we can employ workers and serve our community and our country more efficiently. I am also licensed under the registration of companies for clothing, dry goods accessories, stationery and cosmetics. Our country and community needs dedicated businesses, that puts customers first.

At Marah's we practise that day by day, and I know by the help of God we will be victorious. I am pleading to the government of this country, please pay more attention to small business people like me. Many big ones don't want to help, they only want to push you around.

Jamaica's future depends on us, but if we don't get help, what will the future be? By the help of God I know Marah's will prosper. We keep our records by double-entry bookkeeping, we practise good hygiene and my wife knows exactly how to get along with customers. I grew up in this community of Rock Hall, went to Rock Hall All-Age, then St Mary's College, wasn't that successful, but thank God I learnt a few things. All I am asking for is a chance to be a better husband, better father, and a better leader to serve my country and community more efficiently.

Maurice Nelson and Aishah Nelson

nelsonmaurice71@yahoo.com