The season of Easter is now with us. For Christians, it is time for prayer and contemplation of a Christ who died and rose from death. There are those who believe, and those outside the faith who do not see Easter that way.

For some, Easter provides the needy with some much-needed restoration of mind and body. On the Christian side, there are places of worship which facilitate those for whom Easter is another chapter which began with the observance of Lent — an important branch of the “tree of life”.

A year ago, this time, thought was given in the column at the season in which Easter lilies were in full bloom. The piece was illustrated with the photo of a sprightly centenarian, Muriel Amiel, who was then at the age of 104 and a very devout member of St Andrew Parish Church. Sister Muriel is no longer with us, but the memories of her linger on. In this season, this year, our nation continues on a road of a seemingly challenging and unending journey, trying to reach peace, hope and joy, in the face of trials and tribulations. The message of Easter resounds far and wide. Many challenges await our people of all ages and stages.

The other morning, one of my favourite senior citizens called, not with her usual happy self, but to share a sad tale of an incident which had happened to her. “Would you believe,” she said, “somebody got some workers to chop down a variety of plants which I was growing on my fence to beautify the area?” This lady is a legend in her time, one who lives for her plants, not just for herself alone, but her neighbours and others who enjoy the surrounding beauty. The elderly friend said she could not believe her eyes when she discovered her precious plants had been hacked down to the ground. “Why did they chop them up?” I asked. She was told that a politician gave out the job to workers. “Did they ask your permission?” was the question asked. “No,” she said, “the workers just did as they were told.”

What purpose did it serve to chop up and destroy plants? From my understanding, the plants weren’t blocking the road or causing any difficulty, so why should they be destroyed, making unhappy this senior who had so carefully taken care of them? Was it that the intruder didn’t like “bush-bush”, or was this just a chance to win some political votes? The keeper of the garden was still trying to make some sense of what had happened. Of course, the typical answer is, “Chop it mek it spring back”. This could have happened at any time, “but in this season, which speaks to new life springing from the earth, to treat it roughly seemed cold and hard-hearted”, said the garden owner.

Meanwhile, in celebration of Easter, many of our local church choirs rehearse for several hours in preparation to deliver arrangements of seasonal hymns, among them the well-known: Alleluia, He’s Risen Indeed! Some versions come from overseas, and others are the colourful and much-acclaimed arrangements by Jamaican choristers. Music is still one of the great talents much loved in places of worship. The music of Easter continues to be revered.

Last Sunday evening at the University Chapel of The University of the West Indies, Mona, the noted (Anglican) Diocesan Festival Choir (DFC) was joined by a chamber orchestra for a presentation of music of the season. DFC has a history of over 90 years. It was a rewarding event; a gift for Easter and beyond. There are several such groups of highly trained voices and players of instruments who display the talents and skills of committed artistes. Each denomination has members who give of their best on occasions of praise and thanksgiving. The voices of the faithful ring out far and wide in celebration of Easter.

A celebration will also take place on Easter morning, at the Little Theatre, Tom Redcam Drive, when members of the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) will stage a ‘Morning of Movement and Music’ — a celebration of voices and dance as the sun rises. This annual programme highlights the spirit of Easter morn, lifting the hearts and minds to whom comes the call of the risen Christ.

The Easter season is also noted for the chance to visit various areas of the island for recreation. Many are preparing to visit the beach or river for a cool dip. It is always the right time to remind motorists the importance of driving carefully. Do not forget that every move we make on the roads can result in serious consequences. Watch your speed and be absolutely sure of how you go. Let us try to get through the holiday safely. May we all have a chance to sing for joy and say “Alleluia”.

Barbara Gloudon is a journalist, playwright and commentator. Send comments to the Observer or gloudonb@yahoo.