Dear Editor,

A few weeks ago we were in a jubilant mood as we celebrated 50 years of independence. From Morant Point to Negril Point Jamaican flags could be seen perched on buildings - commercial and residential - beautifully adorned with black green and gold.

Days leading to our 50th anniversary celebrations, the jubilation was enhanced by a picturesque scene at the National Arena as we sought to recall history and the good old days while we highlighted and recognised the contribution of people who, through their dedication, discipline, hard work and respect for others, paved the way for the future.

Then came the Olympic Games amidst the celebrations where our athletes performed exceptionally well, making us proud, and further putting us on the world map. But how soon we forget! We are stirred, but not changed.

I am referring to the following:

* The barbarism in Trelawny - the senseless hacking to death of a man whose relative was thought to be involved in the unfortunate drowning of two boys. But why attack the man and his daughter and torch his house, even if his relative was involved and not him? The powers that be should not turn a blind eye to this cold and wicked act, but bring the perpetrators to justice.

*The killing of Anthony Hewitt, a stalwart who over the years made significant contribution to the country as he worked tirelessly to stamp out criminal elements - the said elements that took his life.

* The mayhem in the western part of the country, where an eight-year-old girl was among five females raped.

* The senseless mowing down of schoolgirl Melissa Thompson by an irresponsible minibus "sub-driver". These minibuses should be removed from the transport system, as day after day the drivers put people's lives at risk and are the major players of exhibiting indiscipline on our roads. And I could go on and on about the terrible crimes that occur so often that it seems we are in fact immune to them. When will all this end?

Such atrocities must not continue in this small and beautiful island of ours. We must stir up peace among those who are exhibiting such callous behaviour and taking valuable lives from us. Let them understand that what they are doing to our precious children and to families is unacceptable! Every effort must be concentrated to stop these assailants in their tracks.

We must not only be stirred, but the necessary adjustments should be made towards a positive change. Make Jamaica a safe place to live and raise our children!

Jennifer Winston

St Catherine

floress_mac@yahoo.com