Dear Editor,

John’s moving finger writes, and having writ moves on to underscore his written and articulated values within the realm of talk-shows, columns, debates, interviews and public speaking. History will record that the depth, breadth, selflessness and dedication of our journalistic luminary John Maxwell is unparalleled. He was at times rebuked because of his tireless work on behalf of domestic helpers.

It would be soulless of those who would try to demean his invaluable contribution to the land of his birth – Jamaica. John Maxwell has accomplished several times over what a lot of us are striving for: to justify our existence on earth before we take our final exit. The fixity of purpose with which he dedicated his fact-finding man-hours, to address prevailing and future problems, is just part of the measure of the man.

His high IQ never got in the way of his communication skills to fully reach the wide cross-section of his readers and listeners alike. His modus operandi depicts him as a teacher and preacher in one, maintaining the clarity that would impact even a kindergarten level of understanding. This is par excellence in any context.

The laser-like approach with which he researched our environmental pros and cons as it relates to our near-future existence is not unlike the dedication of Archimedes, except the powers that be are not shouting “Eureka”. The passion he exuded in this self-imposed assignment is like that of prophets of old, who were not accepted in their own country. He was a complete journalist, with the wit of a scientifically trained mind.

Cold comfort that hero Marcus Garvey was not really accepted in this his country, while some villains are lionised. We need to pause and take stock of our priorities and our value systems so that the works of our real sons and daughters who dedicate their life’s work to the betterment of our country as he did, are not given to so-called experts landing at the airport with laptop and briefcase only to rewrite that which was already researched.

May John’s soul rest in peace and may God comfort his wife and family.

Fitz Anderson

fitzanderson@yahoo.com