Dear Editor,

As we pause to reflect on the closing of 2025, we are reminded that life is a journey of listening, learning, and growing. Some decisions feel right, others feel wrong, but every experience shapes who we become.

As a nation we must not be too hard on ourselves, even as we remain honest about the challenges before us. Many Jamaicans are fighting silent battles, questioning what the end game will be. One of life’s greatest lessons is this: We must focus on what we can control, release what we cannot, and move forward with purpose.

The impact of Hurricane Melissa tested us deeply. It brought pain, loss, and sorrow to countless families across our island. Yet from that hardship emerged something powerful — unity. In the face of devastation, Jamaicans stood shoulder to shoulder as one people and one nation. That response reflected the true Jamaican spirit: resilient, compassionate, and unbreakable.

As we leave 2025 behind, optimism must be matched with determination. Rebuilding cannot be left to chance and unity cannot be treated as a momentary response to crisis. It must become our sustained national commitment. Jimmy Cliff reminded us that there are many rivers to cross, but history has shown that Jamaica always finds its way.

We do not enter 2026 uncertain or unprepared; we enter with experience, with lessons learnt, and with strength forged through adversity.

Now is the time for action. Now is the time to rebuild not only our roads, homes, and communities, but also our trust in one another. Unity must rise above division. Progress must rise above politics. Compassion must rise above blame. Every citizen, institution, and leader has a role to play in shaping the Jamaica we want to see.

We salute those we lost and honour their memory by committing ourselves to a better future. Togetherness must remain at the centre of our rebuilding efforts. Through hardship and through hope, we move forward as one people — black, green, and gold raised high. Jamaica stands strongest when we stand together.

This is our call to action: Let unity guide our choices, let responsibility guide our leadership, and let love for country guide our actions.

Out of many, we are one.

Stephen Josephs

Advocate, philanthropist, and social impact leader

stephenjosephs2003@yahoo.com