Jamaica is reputed to have the most churches per square mile in the world. Rum bars have a similar status. But what does alcohol have in common with religion or, in the Jamaican context, what do Christianity and church worship have in common with alcohol consumption, especially rum?

There are indeed special similarities between church worship and rum drinking, because they can:

(1) Lift your spirits and place you on a high (a state of intoxication); and for this reason,

(2) Both have mass appeal and are effective means of entertainment, and do

(3) Provide escape from harsh economic and other realities; allowing you to temporarily drown your sorrows, while living in the hope of a better tomorrow.

Alcohol consumption, church worship, music, sex and violence are our passions which are intricately interconnected, prominent in our social consciousness and are, in a sense, the “spirits of Jamaica.”

They are readily promoted by the media in covert and overt fashions. Violence is reprehensible. But, it is promoted and glorified in many films and songs; embedded in everyday expressions and used in the upbringing of far too many children.

Many of our social and economic ills, such as unwanted pregnancies, child abuse and neglect, dysfunctional relationships and the breakdown of family life, indiscipline, poor performance in schools, low productivity at work, lack of respect for each other and law and order, violent crimes and a very high murder rate stem from our attitude towards these defining forms of social interaction.

Our cherished values are just as important as any macro-economic policies aimed at economic recovery; because the best macro-economic policies conceivable will definitely need people with the right attitude or mindset to be effective.

It is good to lift up our spirits and celebrate life. But let us strive for balance, resonance and harmony. And as we live, learn, laugh, love and live it up, let us also uplift ourselves and Jamaica land we love.

Daive R Facey

drfacey@gmail.com