Uttamkumar Isurdeen became confined to a wheelchair following a minibus accident in 2010. Despite his inability to walk, he strives to ensure he does his best to earn and be there for his family.
By Marissa V. Foster
FATHERHOOD is a complex yet gratifying role. Imagine navigating that role with further limitations to your mobility. UttamkumarIsurdeen has been beating the odds and every curveball thrown his way thus far. Despite his physical challenges, he has maintained a sense of normalcy in his family life and hopes to inspire other fathers who may be faced with similar circumstances.
Isurdeen is 38 years old. He attended the Western Hogg Island Primary and Anna Regina Multilateral Schools. He married his wife, Sharon, on September 22, 2008. She’s a teacher by profession. In 2009, she gave birth to Uttamku-
mar’s best friend and their only son,NarindraIsurdeen. Together, the couple has a strong and happy bond because they have the same family-related goals while working diligently to pursue them.
Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse for Uttamkumar on February 27, 2010. He was involved in an accident while travelling in a minibus on the Success public roadway. His son was just eight months old at the time. The driver lost control while attempting to overtake a car, and Isurdeen was, unfortunately one of many passengers who suffered severe injuries. He suffered a fractured spine along with other injuries. “The extent of my injuries was extreme. My mobility was completely lost
due to the severity of the injury, which forced me to use a wheelchair and I am still trying to cope fully because my life has changed drastically because of an uncaring driver,” expressed the father of one.
Depending on a wheelchair makes it difficult for him to fulfill his responsibilities as a husband and father, but this reality does not limit him. He can still contribute and accomplish the family goals he always hoped for with the help of my wife, son, and well-wishers. He enjoys being a father immensely and explained that it has been fantastic for him because he gets to spend a lot of quality time with his son. Isurdeen described spending time with his son by saying, “We engage in a variety of
leisure activities together, but cricket is our most intense pastime. Since my son wants to be a pilot and a cricketer, I spend much of my time in the backyard working with him”. Being a father and husband means everything toIsurdeen. He constantly thinks about ideas and things that he can do to make his family happy. Isurdeen extensively looked for part-time jobs to continue supporting his family and was lucky enough to find one. He expressed that navigating daily tasks and pain is never easy. However, he has a part-time weekend job with the Assuria Insurance Company. Isurdeen expressed that he cannot yet work full hours due to the constant pain and pressure sores he experiences. He also stressed that he wished ac-
cessibility for persons living with disabilities was easier in Guyana, especially as it
relates to employment. He
IN 1994, Edward Bacchus experienced some transformative life events that would have been considered unbearable for many. With the death of his wife, which left Bacchus to care for their three children, their own lives had seemingly taken a turn for the worst. But because of his unrelenting pursuit for a better life for his children, Bacchus pushed on.With faith and the love of a father, he succeeded.
The role of a father goes far beyond providing financial support or teaching them to ride a bike. To many men, being a father is a gift; a way they define themselves. Edward Bacchus, also known as Eddie, is one such man. He has seen enough of fatherhood in all his 84 years of living. Now he lives a quiet life with his son. But as he recounted his journey over the years, he shared how much he’ has overcome and what it has taught him.
In 1977 with the birth of his first child, Eddie describes it as the beginning of perhaps one of the most difficult periods in his life. He was living on the East Coast while working a modest job in a hydraulics company while his wife, Niesha, worked as a nurse. Together, they were a couple against the world. It was just my wife, my children and my sister that I was taking care of. There was nobody else, just us,” he recalls.
During this time, the Bacchus family’s challenges grew as Eddie lost his job. At the time living in Kitty, ends became harder to meet and providing for his children was becoming more of a challenge each day. “Those years were rough. It was hard to bring up children without a job. We moved from place to place, finding money for school, sleeping and living accommodations. The kids were punished. They were really punished, but we made it, and I’m so proud of them today,” Eddie said.
The family began to see better times through their resilience as the years went on. He said one of his happiest memories was when his son graduated from St Angela’s Primary and earned a place at Queen’s College. “I couldn’t believe it. Then my other son started to attend St Joseph’s High. And those are some memories I will have until I die,” he said. When asked why these memories were so important to him, he explained it was because he was able to give his children the one thing that could ensure them a better life than his: education.
Life is unpredictable. The best we can do as people is to prepare ourselves. But nothing could have prepared Eddie for
the death of his wife. It wasn’t sudden; she fell sick in 1994 and died 15 years later in 2009. Speaking about his wife, Eddie fondly reminisces just how good of a mother she was during their 35 years of marriage. “Married for 35 years, she never left, I never left. She was instrumental in the upbringing of the children. Making sure the children went to school, did their chores and everything. But in 1994, she became sick. I took her to a lot of hospitals and doctors. No one could find anything wrong with her. She was a complicated case,” he explained.
And her complications only grew over the years. It was during this time that Eddie undertook even more roles and responsibilities. He was now a father and caretaker. Eddie recounted how their family dynamic changed: “I tried all kinds of things. I did my best. For 15 years, I struggled with her and pushed her to feel better; to keep going.” In the years that followed, Eddie made a total of nine trips to Trinidad and Tobago in pursuit of better health for his wife.
After some time, Eddie said the children knew their mother was sick.“We tried everything. And I had to be there with them. She would still do things, like cook, but she wasn’t well. And the children realised their mother was sick. At the time, they were teenagers, so they knew,” he said. And in 2009, with children ranging in age from 11 to 17, his wife died. Looking back now, Eddie never considered himself a single father because, to him, his wife never left. It took a lot out of the family, and when Eddie was asked what was his motivation to go on, he stated, “Because we had to.”
Today, Eddie leads a quiet simple life in La Parfait Harmony with his second son, daughter-in-law and his two grandsons. Looking back, there isn’t anything Eddie says he would have done differently. “Maybe if I had the money, there are things I would have done differently. But I didn’t, so I had to depend on what I had. And with what I had, I wouldn’t have done anything differently. My whole motivation was for them to have an education and morality. And that doesn’t call for money,” Eddie said.
Since the birth of his first son some 46 years ago, Eddie ensured his children got a few things. The first one is education. “My whole ambition for them was to make sure they had an education. I had no big money. I had no savings, and we were renting. I wanted them to be educated. Like most parents, I wanted them to be someone better than I was,” he shared.
Even today, Eddie has an unbreakable bond with each of his children. At 84, he still plays a very active role in their lives, as he considers fatherhood something that will never end. Eddie believes he has reached thus far with his children, not just due to his strength or courage but largely due to his relationships with each of them.”No child is born a prostitute or criminal. It’s you, the parents, who cause that. You have to monitor your children. You have to be there for them,” Eddie opined.
On this Father’s Day, Eddie and many fathers like himself celebrate the work they have done and continue to do. From raising us and making us laugh and teaching us how to be better people, fathers are irreplaceable. So let’s celebrate our heroes without capes this Father’s Day.
WITH the arrival of the year 2020, was also the arrival of the COVID 19 pandemic, which devastated all countries around the world; some more than others. It was a time
when fathers had to step up even more to be there for their families. That was more so for men who had preteen children. More was demanded of fathers who were there for their children during the good times. So, in the bad times of the then raging COVID-19, one observed those responsible fathers who did all they could to give their children the necessary extra care and attention in terms of staying COVID-free and healthy.
Society is sometimes oblivious to fathers who go the extra mile for their children and tend to shout primarily about those who do not. On this Father’s Day 2023, I find it extremely important to uplift, even more, those men who take fathering as a most important responsibility in our society. Many fathers realised just how important it was to be at home much more during the period of COVID-19.
As is seen in the photograph accompanying this article, is a candid photograph which I took
of a father, with his sick young daughter, at a hospital as they were awaiting medical attention. Although he was wearing a COVID protective mask, I could yet observe that father’s deep concern and anguish regarding his daughter’s health condition from his body language. He is certainly a “hands-on” father, as the photograph shows.
Some years ago, while covering a story at the Georgetown Public Hospital, I interacted with a male nurse who was on duty at the time. He went about his duties with such calm, and even professional pleasure, I’d add. So, I enquired of him about choosing such a career. He mentioned that he was a father, and his nursing skills came in very useful often. For him, the nursing profession was not only a career from which he earned an income but a career which, as a father, was personally useful. It was no guesswork whenever it became necessary to administer the correct medicine to his children. That duty, he further explained, was also to his extended family, as well as to neighbours and friends, from time to time. On this Father’s Day, the hope is that you have already done your loving duty to your father as you read this article. If, however, your father has passed on, you can reflect on the many happy memories you shared together and, in your heart, wish him “Happy Father’s Day.”
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wishes for a universal design of all public facilities—for easier access and inclusion. Someday, he hopes to become fully independent by working full-time and earning a higher income for his family.
He will always support his son in any activity. He aims to guide and let him have a bright future. Sometimes, his son questions why he can’t walk or stand by himself, but Isurdeen expressed that as his son grew older, he is becoming normalised to his limitations. “He is slowly learning about the reality of life,” said Isurdeen. “Anything can happen within the split of a second”.
His commitment and dedication are evident in his will to persevere, no matter what. The beaming Isurdeen wanted to advise fathers and parents with words of encouragement. He said,“My advice is that your kids will love you for who you are. They are blessings to a family, and as your children grow, they will see these life lessons, your actions and love of life. Be the role model.”He teaches his son everyday to be appreciative and love everyone despite what they can do or how they look, and he hopes everyone can do the same as well.
AS always, on Father’s Day, countries worldwide celebrate and honour fathers, paternal bonds and the influence that men who undertake these roles in society.
The Pepperpot Magazine sat down with media operative and now pastor of the New Testament Church of God in Guyana, Bishop Terrence Esseboom. He shared his perspective on how fathers in the media should function and take care of their children.
Esseboom revealed that fathers should be good nurturers and counsellors to their children who would want to follow in their footsteps, be it in their profession or otherwise.
According to him, if they seek to influence their children to pursue a similar career, such as in the media, fathers should also impart knowledge that they would have learned to their children, particularly the art of writing a good story.
“Allow them to get the exposure, let them travel and learn about their country, cultures of other ethnicities, while at the same time getting the experiences,” Esseboom advised.
“As a journalist, there are certain skills and experiences you would have learned in your career, as you would in any other profession, that you would need to impart to the next generation.”
He noted that teaching children about journalism is beneficial because it encourages them to be au fait with many areas
of expertise, whether that area be politics, culture, education or other subjects.
According to the veteran journalist, fathers in that profession are able to enjoy many experiences that they can also share with their children when they have returned from their assignments.
But regardless of profession or how demanding it is, Esseboom maintains that fathers must continue to place great importance on their families. “The quality of families is determined by the quality of the fathers,” he opined.
Esseboom contended that family and family life are critical to fathers, an observation he made within his own demanding profession in the media.
He noted that for him when he worked in the media, he was not too keen on working on Sundays, and now as a pastor, he does not host
any events on holidays at his church.
According to him, holidays belong to him and his family.
IN 2020, when the PPP/C Administration won the general elections, the people of Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s home village of Unity, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, honoured him by renaming a street in the village ‘Bharrat Street’. The street was once called Factory Dam because it housed an ice factory and was once a mud dam before an all-weather road was built.
the way to the Old Road into the neighbouring village of Lancaster.
The people of Bharrat Street, Unity, Mahaica, are very friendly.
Surajpaul Harrichan is a well-known residentwho doesn’t waste any idle time since he is always on the go, working, going to the Backdam to gather dry coconuts, pick puri leaves or bamboo based on orders.
him will undoubtedly cheer you up by his jokes and easy gaff.
The father of two told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is expecting his first grandchild, and he is very excited about it.
He has two daughters; one is married and has her own small business, and the other is up and coming with her own religious store and is an aspiring singer.
This week, the Pepperpot Magazine journeyed to Unity Village highlight the way of life of the villagers, most of whom have lived all their lives in that community they call home.
Bharrat Street is a long road with dwelling houses on both sides, and it goes all
The 60-year-old seems so much more effervescent for his age and has the endurance of youthfulness and exuberance that surpasses a lot of people who are far younger than him.
Harrichan is a very humble person who is very jovial, and being around
Harrichan resides in the house which was owned by his parents and was handed down to him, a colonial-style structure which is a wooden building with detailed woodwork.
He has done a lot to maintain the edifice in good condition even though it was built in the 1960s. Harrichan explained that his parents constructed the house with all the materials for just $600, and back then, it was a lot of money, but they saved up proceeds from their small profits as
farmers. He related that he came from a large family of 13 siblings. Two others live in the same village as neighbours, while the rest is abroad.
Harrichan stated that life is fair in Unity, Mahaica and
he is quite contented to be able to have good health so he can work and provide for his family.
Even as a young man, Harrichan is accustomed to
ROOPA Ramdass is a stay-at-home mother of two, who takes care of the home, the cleaning and cooking on a daily basis and her role in the home is vital in the upbringing of her children.
Being a housewife is a critical role; she takes on her duties seriously to ensure her children are not late for school, their meals are cooked and the home is clean and organised.
Ramdass is 32 years old and was sweeping the yard when the team visited Unity Village, Mahaica.
She likes the quietness of the village and the neighbours who are good to her, and they would bring what-
ever fruits and vegetables they grow to her home.
Ramdass is originally from Palmyra, East Canje, Berbice and relocated to Unity Village after marriage.
It was 13 years ago when she moved to Unity Village and she is accustomed to the simple way of life that goes with the countryside.
“I would do what I have to and stay mostly indoors, but the people around here are good and we do talk when I see them around and it is a good place to live,” she said.
That day, she had already made breakfast and lunch and only had to do a quick meal for dinner, which is mostly roti with curry or a stew of choice.
have lunch and rest before returning to work in the afternoon.
Kumdat PersaudMeanwhile, in the same street is the home of pensioner, Kumdat Persaud, 68, who was once a farmer but had to quit farming due to ill health.
The father of four told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is a local of Unity, Mahaica, where he always lived even as a boy and he likes the peace there.
Persaud added that four years ago, he developed severe pains in both legs and started having difficulty walking or standing up for long periods.
He related that he was diagnosed with a pinched nerve and arthritis, which made him unable to work.
Persaud has since applied for disability benefit,
buthas not yet been able to receive it even though he is registered with the National Disability Association of Guyana.
He stated that he is only getting old age pension, which is insufficient for his personal needs and cost of living.
Indra Boodhoo
In Last Street, Unity Village, Mahaica is the home of Indra Boodhoo, an employee of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.
The 54-year-old mother of two reported that life is quiet in that village and the people are easy-going and busybodies doing their own things. She has been living there for the past 20 years and she has her elderly mother-in-law there, too and that day, when the team visited, they were
together outside chatting.
Boodhoo reported that the village is not very large and the people know each other and they would exchange cordial greetings daily.
She stated that there are three main streets and two cross streets in that section of the village and a few shops here and there.
Boodhoo told the Pepperpot Magazine that life is how you make it, and she chooses to live humble and peaceful.
Meanwhile, Aunty Doreen (only name given) is 77 years old and after residing abroad for years, she returned to Guyana to stay.
She related that she cannot do things as she should due to intense leg pains and cannot stand for long.
The elder reported that she has arthritis in both legs and she once enjoyed doing many
things in the home.
She added that she doesn’t go out much because of the pains and she never worked in her life, she was a housewife taking care of the home and children.
She has six children and is the grandmother of 14 and great grand mother of one.
Aunty Doreen explained that the drains in the village need to be cleaned because whenever it rains, they would get flood even inside the lower flat of their house.
She added that there is a garbage problem in the community and a general upgrade is necessary to maintain a clean environment.
She has a nice, clean home with many trees, plants and flowers to add a bit of colour to the living space.
hard work, and it doesn’t bother him because he cannot stay still for long.
He would go around on his bicycle to visit coconut estates, farms and Backdam to gather whatever is required for people based on their orders of dry coconuts, puri leaves, and bamboo.
When the team caught up with Harrichan he was on his way home after visiting a customer and would have to pick 300 to 500 dry coconuts and peel them by hand to deliver them.
He would wake up early, get about his day before sunrise, and return home to
“I do a job work, for a day and I work based on what the people want, so if I get a call and order to get 300 puri leaves, I would have to go and cut it and get it to the customer within a period of time,” he said.
He also works on people’s farms to pick coconuts and whatever else is needed for the job and is the community’s go-to-guy.
“I like to work, it doesn’t bother me and I will continue to work hard until I can so I need good health for it,” he said.
AT 72 years old, Elsie Mohan looks forward to gardening; her flower plants are her everything, and she spends hours taking care of them daily.
She is a resident of Unity, Mahaica and has lived there most of her life. She keeps a nice clean home and her yard is adorned with flower plants of all colours and variety.
She resides in the family home, which was once owned by her parents, who have since passed away and she has been widowed for the past six years.
Mohan came from a family of four sisters and three brothers, one of whom lives with her.
The mother of three told the Pepperpot Magazine that
she used to buy plants and when she had enough, she began decorating her yard and living space with all the flower plants, including vines.
Mohan added that she would spend her day cooking, cleaning and taking care of her plants then relax a bit in her outdoor hammock until it is time to tend to the plants again.
The elder related that her
children are all grown. A son lives in David Rose Housing Scheme, Mahaica, while two others live in the United States and Canada.
Mohan used to live in Trinidad and Tobago for sometime before she returned to Guyana and has settled.
“My only hobby is my
WINTON Camacho has a lot of ingenious ideas, but he is realistic and is doing the most to promote hydroponics at his dad’s place in Lancaster, Mahaica and at his home in Amelia’s Ward, Linden.
The 23-year-old, who is an offshore employee, told the Pepperpot Magazine that he studied aquaponics and hydroponics in Trinidad and Tobago and Australia, and when he returned home to Guyana, he incorporated his knowledge into a hydroponics farm.
Camacho added that usually pak choi and lettuce take four to six weeks to fully grow, but with hydroponics, it takes only three weeks, and there is no need for any soil since it is purely water-based using PVC pipes, a water tank and a pump system.
Hydroponics is the cultivation of plants without using soil. Hydroponic flowers, herbs, and vegetables are planted in inert growing media and supplied with nutrient-rich solutions, oxygen, and water.
This system fosters rap-
through a process called photosynthesis. Plants capture sunlight with chlorophyll (a green pigment present in their leaves).
They use the light’s energy to split water molecules they’ve absorbed via their root system. The hydrogen
to nutrient-filled water can be a more effective and versatile method of growth than traditional irrigation(Information sourced from Fresh Water Systems website).
Camacho told the Pepperpot Magazine that hydroponics is low maintenance and
on studies, hydroponics is an old technology that been around before must of us but it is back with a bit of a modern twist, such as electricity and a water pump.
“I am here at my dad’s place in Mahaica to lend some assistance because I
Camacho added that he designed and built the current hydroponics setup they have at his father’s place and the one at his mother’s residence in Amelia’s Ward, Linden and they do not buy certain vegetables they grow. He reported that he
id growth, stronger yields, and superior quality. When a plant is grown in soil, its roots perpetually search for the necessary nutrition to support it.
If a plant’s root system is exposed directly to water and nutrition, it does not have to exert any energy to sustain itself.
The energy the roots would have expended acquiring food and water can be redirected into the plant’s maturation. As a result, leaf growth flourishes as does the blooming of fruits and flowers.
Plants sustain themselves
molecules combine with carbon dioxide to produce carbohydrates, which plants use to nourish themselves.
Oxygen is then released into the atmosphere, a crucial factor in preserving our planet’s habitability. Plants do not need soil to photosynthesise.
They need the soil to supply them with water and nutrients. When nutrients are dissolved in water, they can be applied directly to the plant’s root system by flooding, misting, or immersion.
Hydroponic innovations have proven direct exposure
the water used is recycled, and you just have to top up on the nutrients, which are very expensive and sourced via Amazon.
He explained that based
does be working 28 days on and 28 days off and when I am here, I try to do the farming because he would need the lettuce to make his burgers for sale,” he said.
bought regular pvc pipes but the uni-seals, foamand net cups were sourced from overseas and he is always ex-
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EVEN though Sashwatie Harrichan had no formal voice training, she knew she felt passionate about singing, and when she did, she felt good inside out and decided she would come out in public to showcase her talent.
After gaining self-confidence, she ventured out to the mandir and started singing bhajans and it surprised a lot of people who did not know she couldactually sing.
Her voice is big and she has since become familiar with Hindi and can sing Bollywood songs but has no interest in rum songs (chutney) or songs with vulgarity being English.
Harrichan is a staunch Hindu and she has her own small business at her home, a religious store that caters for jandhis and other religious functions where the entire sarjam can be sourced.
Sasha as she is called told the Pepperpot Magazine that she has a vision of what she wants and is working towards achieving her own recording studio and equipment to fasttrack her singing career.
For now, it is not about making money; she is only singing at mandirs, birthdays or other events as a hobby until she can elevate herself in making her own music.
The 25-year-old is very hyped about singing, and even before she started taking online Hindi classes and voice training, she knew she had what it takes to sing and make a name for herself.
“I knew I could sing, but my family wasn’t aware, so one day I told my mother that I wanted to compete in singing and she was like how and I started singing and she
could not believe it. She had to go and wake up my sister to witness what was happening and it was then I began singing in public,” she said.
Harrichan disclosed that her elder sister is an excellent singer and sings mostly at mandirs or religious functions such as jandhis.
These days, she hosts free voice training and singing classes at her home for children in her neighbourhood and is also pursuing courses online via the Guyana Dharmic Sabha in voice training and Hindi.
“It takes a lot to get up on stage and sing in front of people, especially a large gathering, but I am not scared of doing that anymore because I know I can do it,” she said.
Harrichan describes sing-
ing as making her feel so alive and good about herself, and she sees it as a form of expressing her inner self through her voice.
She is a vegetarian and likes classical Hindi music and is aware of her great potential and wishes to channel it into singing, which makes her happy.
“I like to be on top of things, to be prepared and to be able to express myself fully and that’s why I opened my own small business because working with people was not going well for me. I am trying to make my dreams come true in terms of singing and I hope I will be able to do it,’ she said.
Harrichan added that she has the support of her family and she is happy
GROWING up, we concluded that every human indiscretion and failure was due to something wrong that a man did. Based on what was negatively done to that individual’s innocence in the formative years had then influenced the overwhelming bad habits repeatedly common of some souls.
We condoned a religious concept of Original Sin, which is how we interpret the idea, taking other options into consideration. For instance, the reality that, individually, if we are born healthy, we do have the faculty of choice between
good and evil. But is there a link between ‘Free Choice’ and the idea of Original Sin?
Commonsense would dicate that they do, as Original Sin lingers as a preemptive impulse that can be weighted positively or negatively.
Like the allegory of ‘Adam and Eve’, if negative, we can blame our errors on our circumstances, versus the temptation to benefit from decisions we should not have made. Therefore, none of us are without sin. We all have regretted actions, openly or inwardly, because we have never received all the information for perfection; some we learn
from our errors and impulses afterwards, sometimes from an inborn ‘force field’ called the ‘Conscience’.
We think mainly in the context of religion or mysticism first. When it comes to defining strange and unnatural behaviour, our references to profound folklore proverbs have been local guides to help us along the way. Still, we are not protecting that cultural gift for reference? ‘Blow fire wid yuh mouth, ashes fall in yuh eye’; ‘commonsense born before book’; ‘crack callabash don’ mend’. These and more have helped to shape awareness on the practical
level of relating to one’s own diverse neighbourly surroundings and life choices that impact on us for generations.
Scolding, gossip, and adult conversations have been transmitted through proverbs. As children, we used them effectively, especially ‘do suh, nah like suh’, and the eternal ‘monkey know wuh limb fuh jump pon’, because proverbs have multiple case interpretations, and work to activate the imagination and practical observation. Hence, with commonsense intact, the realms of literature books
became easier to embrace, understand and interpret; the puzzles of social comparisons and antics are easier to solve. Because, for example, “Fool must realise that how ‘e see ‘eself in ‘e mind, ah nah de same ‘e in mirror pon wardrobe.”
There is a new narrative of this age that is necessary to become aware of that must be recognised for a better understanding of the era we live in. We thought that social circumstances alone developed human behaviour. Well, not exactly. From the medical sciences of experiment and
observation.
There is another phenomenon that we must come to understand: The reality of mental diversity; the grim and crippling reality of the mentally disorderly, once referred to as ‘Children of the Moon’, or Lunar-tics. But there are much more, and this is a severe deadly phenomenon. Some humans are born different, and can evolve as dangerous to all around them and to others, as dangerous as their influence reach.
I entered this Science
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FROM PAGE VIII
plants and tending to them every day is what I look forward to and it makes me feel good,” she said.
Mohan is a resident of Back Street, Unity Village, Mahaica and described the place as quiet and peaceful.
She would only leave the house if it is necessary to go shopping or for essentials, and she is in the habit of cooking early and completing chores so there is enough time to keep the flowers alive and vibrant.
Mohan reported that Back Street is a good place to settle down with a family because it is breezy and there is space to grow plants
and flowers, among other things and the neighbours are normal everyday people going about their own business in a good manner.
Meanwhile, Mohan’s sister, Latchmie Mohan, who is an avid reader of books, was reclining in the outdoor hammock at the backyard where there is another flower garden that day when the team visited.
She is 66 years old and she returned to Guyana in 2013 after living in Trinidad and Tobago. These days, she spends a lot of her spare time reading books he buys or visits the city and goes to the Guyana Book Foundation on Woolford Avenue.
The mother of one add-
ed that she likes it here and it feels good to be back home, her country of birth.
Premattie Chung
Premattie Chung is also a resident of Unity, Mahaica and that day when the team visited, she was upstairs watching television.
The 59-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that she had already completed household chores, prepared a meal of dhal, rice and fried fish, and was relaxing.
She had a shop but closed it down sometime ago due to slow business and she would spend time mostly at home since she is not of the best of health.
The mother of three stat-
ed that her son would often check in with her, and the neighbours are her relatives so she feels safe since they look out for each other.
Five years ago she suffered a stroke, leaving only one side of her body functional since her hand and eye
are not working as before.
Based on advice from doctors, she would try to walk and do some exercise to regain the full use of her body parts on one side.
She lives on Cremation Road, Unity and is originally from Uitvlugt, West Coast
Demerara and married and moved to Unity.
Chung reported that she is quite contented and hopes to regain the full use of her body parts affected by stroke and maintain good health.
THIS year’s Local Government Elections (LGEs) were held last week. By Tuesday, when this column was written, the results were still being made public. I saw several persons on social media comment about the delays in releasing the results. It made me think about the potential for us to conduct these elections electronically in the future.
So first, let me acknowledge that this year, there were some improvements that I had not seen before (for emphasis, that doesn’t mean that some or all of these measures weren’t in place before). GECOM’s website had a quick and simple way for voters to find their polling station.
On the website’s homepage, that option could have been selected and then, a voter would have to input his national identification (ID) number or his full name and date of birth to find out exactly which polling station to visit. I thought this was particularly useful because it allows voters to easily confirm that they are registered voters and where they need to go to vote from a device as accessible as a cell phone, eliminating the need to visit polling stations and search for names on the list of voters posted there.
Aside from this tool, GECOM’s website had the register of voters on its website as well, which was sorted by Local Authority Area. With these, individuals could check for their names and the names of other people who live in their constituencies. Other useful information, like the offices of the Returning Officers and maps of the municipalities, were also on GECOM’s website and could have been easily accessible. Afterwards, the results of this year’s elections were uploaded to that same site.
I thought these features and uploads on the Commission’s website were really helpful. As someone who did not know much about Local Government Elections, including where I would be going to vote, accessing that information was quite simple. And I think this signals a growing integration of digital and electronic measures in our elections systems.
Guyana still relies on the traditional, paper-based mechanism of voting. Voters choose their candidates on the ballots and then deposit those documents into large containers. Later, those ballots are opened and tallied to determine the election results. As we saw last week, the tabulation and verification of the results take a lot of time in this manner. So many people have called for the introduction of electronic voting in Guyana, as is being done in several other countries. India, which undertakes the world’s largest elections because of its population size, already offered to help Guyana transition to electronic voting; that offer was made known by the Indian High Commission in Georgetown, according to a January 2022 report published in the Guyana Chronicle newspaper.
And more electronic means of voting is something the larger political parties have considered and even asked for. Op-
position-nominated Commissioners on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) asked for biometric voting. Guyana’s Vice President, who is the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo reportedly said he was not opposed to such a system though he was wary of it being misused and preventing people from exercising their conSEE PAGE XXVII
THIS week’s column piece was written to highlight the positives surrounding fatherhood, especially in Guyana. I won’t sugarcoat it when I stress that there are nega-
tives concerning fatherhood in Caribbean societies. Most of it can be traced back to patriarchal practices passed down from colonial days. Nonetheless, I must applaud the efforts and hard work many fathers put into practice daily to ensure their children have everything they want and need in this life. I believe that men themselves are victims of white patriarchal “norms”. There’s a lot of pressure on their roles of being the
provider and leader in households, even in our “modern” societies. Sadly, men are negatively generalised under many umbrellas. They also struggle with their own sets of unrealistic and expected gender roles—even if they didn’t ask for it.
Even though the change and progression is slow— there is still a glimpse of hope to look forward to. I see men on my social media, in my community and across Guyana trying to make a difference in their daily roles and responsibilities as a father. Some understand that their privileges to “rule” over the family can be more damaging than effective.
Both men and women alike are equally having a say in decision-making in most modern Guyanese households. Of course, there will always be exceptions, but that’s not what we’re discussing today.
I’ve also surprisingly spoken to men who even implemented the concept of gentle parenting with their children. Some may say they shouldn’t be applauded for doing the right thing. I say we must acknowledge and welcome good change—no matter how small it is. They are not the enemy. The systems working against us all are.
Without invalidating that of the female experiences, I must say that men have their own sets of discrimination, marginalisation and stereotypes—as anyone on this planet. With that in mind, the roles of genders are shifting, and so is the role of a father. In my opinion, fatherhood extends beyond providing financially for a household. It is more than being the disciplinarian, the household’s protector and “head”. You should include in your roles fixing the injustice that surrounds family roles and gender equity. You should not sit on the sidelines and allow your privileges to undermine your children and partner. As we celebrate Father’s Day, let’s celebrate and acknowledge the men who are trying to right the wrongs of unjust systems that work against their children and partners—instead of trying to be an enabler of it. We see you and we appreciate you.
I ALWAYS have a blast going back home, but it feels extra special when I am a part of a team that adds value to many lives.
Thank you to the Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams, who collaborated through his office with the Sonia Noel Foundation to host ‘Empowerment Through Creative Entrepreneurship’.
Creative entrepreneurship is setting up a business, or becoming self-employed, in one of the creative industries. The focus of the creative entrepreneur differs from that of the typical business entrepreneur.
Natasha David did not hesitate to join me in my hometown for this inspiring workshop. One of the things I love about Natasha David is her willingness to share her knowledge with others. I started with discussions about the importance of confidence and purpose, no matter your career path. Purpose helps you prioritise your life, allowing you to walk away from certain people or activities that don’t serve your purpose. It’s a main driver to stay motivated when things get challenging.
I also spoke about staying in power, and consistency
along this entrepreneurial journey. Natasha David skillfully imparted her knowledge of creating customised jewellery and cushions. At the end of the session, five concepts of necklaces and earrings were taught. I was impressed with the creativity displayed; everyone could create a personal item for themselves.
The positive feedback is very encouraging, and the participants used words like fantastic, refreshing, educational, great, awesome, wonderful, excellent, inspiring and many more to describe this workshop.
I am sharing some of the messages we received from some of the participants.
“Miss Noel’s introduction was one we would call a ‘PURPOSE-DRIVEN’ introduction. She didn’t stand there and preach us down; but the little she said came from a place of humility and love. She kept encouraging everyone in the room to ‘FIND YOUR PURPOSE’, and that stood out most. There and then, we knew the workshop was going to be fulfilling. When Miss Noel introduced Miss Natasha, she said, ‘She is one of the most genuine people I know,’ and we stood with her on this after being in a room with her for only two days. The way
Miss Natasha executed her work was amazing; her patience, smile and fun-loving spirit will be her legacy. We the ‘Miss Bartica Emancipation Contestants’ are grateful for the opportunity we were given to attend and participate in such an educational and productive two-day workshop. These two days definitely impacted us, and contributed positively to this beautiful journey we’re on. Our first day, Miss Noel had us introduce ourselves, and in our introduction, we all indicated our purpose for being there. Now that the two days have passed, we can all say, ‘it was a beautiful learning experience!’
“To Miss Sonia and Miss Natasha, thank you for sharing your amazing gifts and talents with us for two days, and I’m proud to say I was a part of that event, and I learned more than expected. I am forever grateful and thankful, and looking forward to more events like this. Once again, thank you, and may God continue to bless you both.”
“I registered for your course
It was a chaotic scene as traffic came to a halt and people around ran to the crashed car to assist in rescuing the occupants.
The car was not far away from where Sachin had managed to bring the Lexus to a halt. She had grabbed onto him, trembling badly and he was not sure he could put his arms around her but it was the best thing to do in the circumstance.
The police and fire service arrived in no time at the horrific accident scene. The ambulance arrived just in time as the car’s three occupants were removed; one dead and two badly injured. Sachin, a little shaken himself, called her father to relate what happened.
“How is my daughter?” he asked.
“She’s badly shaken. Can you send someone to take her home? I have to wait to give a statement to the police.”
“I am coming there myself,” the father said with deep con-
cern; “Do not leave her side.”
“Yes sir.”
He made to step out of the car as the police approached to question him and she grabbed his arm, “No, don’t leave.”
“I’m not leaving,” he assured her, “But I have to talk to the police; try to relax a little. Your father is on his way.”
She nodded, taking a few deep breaths as he spoke to the police whilst they examined the damages to the car. Mr. Singh arrived in no time and in the comfort of her father’s arms she
managed to calm down. At the police station, after Sachin had given his statement that witnesses corroborated, he was not found culpable for the accident.
“Thank you, officer,” Mr. Singh said.
And as they were about to exit the station, the officer asked in a curious tone, “How long has this young man been driving for you, Sir?”
“About four months.”
“Well, you should hold onto him,” the officer advised, “Because if he hadn’t managed to bring that car under control, the situation would have been bad.”
Mr. Singh looked at Sachin, deep gratitude in his eyes.
Sachin reached home later than usual and his worried mother and elder sister hugged him with deep relief. They had seen the accident on the news.
“I did good today, Ma,” he said a bit emotional.
“May God always bless you and keep you safe, my son.”
When Sachin reported to work the next day, Mr. Singh called him into his office and handed him an envelope.
“For saving my daughter from what could have been a terrible accident.”
“Wow!” Sachin expressed silently when he opened the envelope and he saw the amount of money. “Thank you, Sir.”
“My children,” Mr. Singh stated, “Are my whole world, especially my little girl.”
Sachin understood how good and loving a father can be, his strong arms forming a protective shield and he inhaled deeply, a glint of sadness in his eyes.
“I wish you were here today, Pa.”
There were times when the ache of losing his father would overwhelm his mind, but he had managed to overcome the pain and feel calm as the years went by. That he did as he collected the keys to the BMW because the Lexus was at the body shop. He sighed with a sense of satisfaction that after traversing the rough paths in life, he was driving his dream cars today, even though just as a driver.
He stood by to begin working but she did not go anywhere for the week. So he drove instead Mrs. Singh and other family members, interchanging between the BMW and Range Rover.
The Jaguar belonged to the son overseas on business and no one, Paul told him, was allowed to touch his car.
“Rightly so,” Sachin stated, “She’s such a beauty.”
That weekend he was not required to work and spent quality time with his mother and sisters. He continued the remodelling work on the vegetable garden he had started some time ago and made a note of what little repair work needed to be done on the house.
It was a small and neat house with a refreshing homely comfort he loved.
“I’m the king of my castle,” he said with conviction as he swung the axe down with a smooth motion on the wood for the fireside.
GUYANESE people have become more interested today in protecting the environment and maintaining biodiversity than at any time in their history. This interest has been stimulated by the discovery of sizable deposits of oil, the growing production of crude and the threats to the environment which oil production poses. Accordingly, when the International Day for Biodiversity was commemorated in the last week of May, many began to seriously focus on the theme of the commemoration: “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity”. This theme has been a wake-up call for those countries which have been dilatory in environmental protection. To Guyana, it has been much more of a call to inspire greater effort in the protection of biodiversity and trying to repair those areas of biodiversity which have been impaired.
What is biodiversity?
Most Guyanese have a partial or rough idea of what it is, but they need to have a slightly more precise understanding of what it is to really grasp its full importance. Biodiversity is the extraordinary diversity of life on earth and even the soil itself. It ranges from genes to species and ecosystems that sustain all living things, whether microbes, plants, animals, or humans. Ecosystems provide life-sustaining services to the species, including humans that inhabit them.
This leads to the long accepted philosophical position that all life is interdependent since all living beings share one life. In all ancient cultures, this truth of the environment was fully understood. In Hinduism, for example, the earth; the soil, which is a living organism, and all life it sustains is deified as Mother Earth, or Dharti Mata and her icon are found in all Hindu temples. The Elizabethan poet John
Donne expresses the same truth regarding human beings: “Don’t ask ‘For whom the (church) bells toll?’ It tolls for thee”.
These ancient truths of the importance of the environment and biodiversity to human survival are only now being understood by modern man who now realises that the polluted and unclean water and air, deteriorating fertility of soils, food shortages and famines, unpredictable and disastrous climate change have been the result of human activities such as deforestation, overfishing, pollution of air and water by industrial and agricultural and mining activity.
The consciousness of the danger to human survival and the quality of life caused by indiscriminate harming of the environment and biodiversity has led to the emergence of several international organisations which try to mobilise the nations of the world to act together to try to protect the environment and biodiversity. This is done by various methods, including training, financial assistance, assisting countries to establish or upgrade environmental departments, cooperating in unified action, etc. Such organisations would include Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD); Conference of Parties (COP); and Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). Most countries in the world are now supportive of these institutions and Guyana stands out among them.
Most of the destruction of the environmental and biological diversity of the world was caused by developed countries two or three centuries ago. They embarked on their industrial and agricultural revolutions when they required further natural resources and began to exploit the underdeveloped world extending environmental harm to them.
Guyana is among the countries working to reverse and repair these negative trends in both individual countries and worldwide.
In addition to establishing an Environmental Protection Agency several years ago, Guyana is now updating its National Biodiversity and Action Plan (NBSAP). UNDP is assisting in this task by providing technical and financial support. The NBSAP will mirror the goals of the major international organisations such as GBF and place Guyana in the loop of the most modern and advanced activity for environmental and biodiversity protection.
Guyana has already declared 17% of its land surface as an area of environmental protection, and this includes the Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve; Kaieteur National Park; Shell Beach Protected Area; Kanuku Mountains Protected Area; and Konashen Amerindian Protected Area.
Then there is the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) which is concerned with climate change and anti-pollution. The strategy has integrated biodiversity considerations within its planning and activity. The LCDS has been able to earn a generous income from which Amerindian communities have benefitted. The Guyana LCDS has pioneered a model which other countries are now copying.
The Guyana Forestry Commission is responsible for the Sustainable Forestry and Biodiversity Programme. The Commission sets the criteria for forest sector operators who have to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining, conserving and enhancing biodiversity at the landscape, ecosystems, species and genetic levels. It is underscored that operators have to protect threatened and endangered species and cooperate in prohibiting the exploitation of threatened
species for commercial purposes. This dovetails with the responsibilities of the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCM), which works to stamp out illegal wildlife trafficking and help to preserve biodiversity.
Finally, there are two important projects in which Guyana is involved to which it is committed: Main -
streaming Biodiversity in Mining (MBIM), which enhances the management of small-scale gold mining with responsible mining techniques such as reducing mercury contamination, and the Prevention of Marine Litter in the Caribbean Sea (PROMAR) which aims to reduce the flow of plastic waste into the marine environment from land or
coastal areas. Though Guyana has an Atlantic and not a Caribbean Sea littoral, Guyana’s participation as a “Caribbean territory” is well understood. Such plastic waste derived mostly from packaging material, sickening and killing seabirds, whales, fish and turtles that unsuspectingly eat them.
FROM PAGE IX
perimenting with introducing newer methods to hydroponics and will soon embark on more aquaponics.
Camacho was the star of the Agriculture Expo held earlier this year at the Guyana national Stadium, Providence. His methods of farming with only water was a hit among exhibitors and visitors.
He made the front page of the Guyana Chronicle in 2021 by introducing hydroponics.
Camacho was born and raised in Lancaster,
Mahaica, so he is no stranger to the countryside and when he is not at work, he is either by his father or mother, but he likes his home village.
The young man related that they had an old house at his dad’s place before a new house, a concrete on-flat house was constructed and they have a shop and a thriving food business of burgers.
“I would like to do more farming, but there isn’t space for that expansion and I have applied for farmlands and it has been
two years I am waiting for my project to be realised. As a pioneer in agriculture promotion, I need the land to start hydroponics and aquaponics farming,” he said.
Camacho told the Pepperpot Magazine that he has developed a hydroponics system at his mother’s residence where they have 68 plants, green seasonings, and most vegetables.
He stated that growing your own food is essential in saving money and is a healthier, organic option.
FROM PAGE XV
with the hopes of gaining new skills and experiences, yet I walked away with so much more. Hearing your stories of stepping bravely into your purpose through entrepreneurship has encouraged and empowered me to honour the gifts that are unique to me. Ms. Sonia, it was a pleasure hearing about your journey from smalltown girl to world-class de-
signer. You continue to be an inspiration to us who desire to break through the moulds placed on us. Your work ethic and deep respect for time as an invaluable resource are to be emulated.
Ms. Natasha, you’re a class act in empowerment; you patiently took us through the steps to create beautiful craft pieces, and have encouraged and supported us (my mother and I) with your follow-up
and willingness to continue sharing your knowledge.
This experience was a blessing, and I look forward to more sessions. God bless you both. Love and respect”
“Overall, it was great. I have learned lots that will really help me in the future. Very good trainer, and she was very helpful and friendly. The trainer was excellent, professional, approachable and friendly. A very insight-
ful course that I will put to very good use. Thank you both for your wisdom, experience and personal presentation. The materials provided would go a long way in helping others.”
“To Miss Sonia and Miss Natasha, thank you for sharing your amazing gifts and talents with us for two days, and I’m proud to say I was a part of that event, and I learned more than expected.
“I am forever grateful and thankful, and am looking forward for more events like this. Once again, thank you, and may God continue to bless you both.”
I was happy to see one of my favourite high school teachers, Gregory Holder enjoying these sessions. He said these events could contribute significantly to the tourism sector, because Barticans will be able to create chains, hand bands etc., to sell to visitors.
Some participants are also interested in doing this as a business, and will be happy to provide guidance as we continue this beautiful journey called, life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.
FROM PAGE XVI
“And one day, I’ll find my queen.”
Her image flashed before his eyes and splashing water on his face and muscled upper body, he shook his head.
“I’m a poor guy, so she can only be a dream.”
But it’s amazing sometimes how love can find a way to change the dynamics of one’s life.
That Monday morning as Sachin stood by to start the day’s work, he felt a new little happy feeling in his heart, something he couldn’t understand.
“I wonder…,” but the thought was interrupted when she came out looking quite refreshing and lovely in a floral summer dress. He took a deep breath but did not let his eyes linger as he opened the door for her. She paused and looked at him with a little smile, “Thank you for averting that accident.”
He nodded, not smiling because he still had to follow rules.
As he turned onto the highway, she told him pleasantly where she wanted to go.
“Yes, Miss.”
“Ahana,” she told him, “That’s my name.”
He nodded, saying nothing and at the end of the day,
as he helped her with her bags to the door, she said to him, “You don’t talk much.”
“In my job, I was told I’m not supposed to.”
“Well, when I talk to you from now on, I would like to hear a response.”
“Yes, Miss.”
As he left for home that afternoon, Sachin thought, “That’s quite a change.”
He liked it but couldn’t be sure how long her pleasant attitude would last so he stayed cool within the limits of an employee. Her father was still grateful to him and had him once drive him and a friend to Crabwood Creek in Corentyne for a friend’s birthday bash.
Things were getting better for Sachin on the job but the one thing that gave him a good feeling was the little things she would say to him sometimes.
“Did you get taller?”
“Nice hair cut.”
He still had challenges to face though with her rude, entitled friends, especially her boyfriend, Chris. He was wealthy, confident and with refined good looks but his arrogant personality was unbearable. And for some reason or the other, he did not like Sachin, who, because of his job as Ahana’s driver, became a target for him.
But all that came to an end one Sunday when Ahana was at an outing at a creek up the highway with friends. Sachin was by the car alerted as usual to everything around them. It was getting late in the afternoon, most people at the creek having left when a black Toyota pulled up with three guys, heavily tattooed and caps pulled low over their heads. They sat drinking beers, casting quick glances at Ahana’s friends.
Sachin sensed something wasn’t right and called Ahana aside, telling her quietly, “I think everyone should leave.”
“Why?”
He indicated slightly with his head to the three men by the Toyota but before she could say anything, Chris came up to them and pushed Sachin, “Tired of seeing you around, loser.”
“Stop that,” Ahana admonished him, “We have to leave.”
“No, we’re not!”
He grabbed her arm and Sachin noticing the men approaching, one with a gun in his hand, pulled Ahana from Chris and pushed her to the ground behind a car, covering her body with his as the men shouted,
“No one moves!”
To be continued…
stream by investigating the career world of a character I developed. He’s a mystic and a clinical psychiatrist. So I had to know what my character does. Critics can be fierce and even spiteful, so I bought an interesting book that hinted that I buy a medical dictionary of the field. I was uncomfortable spending this hard-earned cash, which was needed in my local home environment, but I, however, never regretted doing so.
I realised then that we live in a world of birthed, developed and unspecified anti-social minds. For example, the speculations of experts define ‘the psychopath’ as someone who lacks empathy, but can fake normal emotions so convincingly that they often come across as personable; even charming. This appearance of normalcy, the so-called mask of sanity, in factual definition, they don’t care, because they can’t. They are born with their brains malfunctioned. See- ‘Scientific American Mind’-Sep-Oct-2010. They build special prisons for psychopaths.
But even worse is ‘the sociopath’. This is a brief downloaded from Health Essential News, and collaborated with my ancient ‘1990 MAYO CLINIC family Health Book’. It’s still the same: “Chances are that at some point in your life, you’ve encountered someone who doesn’t seem to take any consideration for your feelings, or understand social norms. They lack an understanding of right and wrong, no matter who gets hurt.” We describe people with similar traits as, “Duh’s a cruel banna’, a weirdo, or sicko.” We attribute it to deprived upbringings, spiritual things deh family believe in, or as cruel, meaning to ‘keep away’. The truth is that medically anti-social persons are legion.
With the pervasion of narcotics in our nation, and dangerous over-the-counter drugs sold illegally, we have got to seriously up the awareness, because some of the horror stories occurring imply that what evils not birthed, drugs and the social collapse of inspirational core values have cultivated; worse, into legions of anti-social behaviour acceptance.
FROM PAGE XIII
stitutional right to vote. For context, a biometric system uses physical characteristics such as fingerprints to help identify people. The opposition-nominated commissioners believe this will help prevent voter impersonation and/or fraud.
The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), in a report, said electronic voting is viewed as a tool that can help to make the electoral process more convenient, efficient, and trustworthy. It also posited that it can reduce the number of spoiled ballots with warning systems in place and potentially help increase voter turnout.
The International IDEA is an intergovernmental organisation that works to support and strengthen democratic institutions and processes around the world.
It, however, acknowledged some weaknesses associated with electronic voting. That includes the digital manipulation of the results if adequate security systems are not in place and in many places, a possible conflict with laws (that is, where the laws do not cater for electronic voting). It was also noted that there are increased costs to set up and run elections electronically. Undoubtedly, these factors should be considered before Guyana implements an electronic voting system.
If you would like to connect with me to discuss this column or any of my previous work, feel free to email me at vish14ragobeer@gmail.com.
Dear Student, Welcome dear friend. After you have spent months away from distractions and hours alone with study material, you deserve some time for relaxation. You can get out now, but slowly, so your
June 18, 2023
eyes can get accustomed to the daylight and your body to cool fresh air. Be good to yourself now. Be happy not having to think about studying for,and writing examinations, at least very soon; and look up good friends who wish desperately to reach you.
Love you.
THE PASSAGE
Comprehending a passage
Read the following carefully and then answer all the questions that follow.
It was six o’clock on Friday evening about fifteen years after Rose’s departure, and exactly a fortnight since she returned. Mother Barton laid supine on the bed. The counterpane was drawn up to the neck leaving her heels and toes exposed at the other end. Her eyelashes were damp and she squinted continually. The lingering stains of which-hazel had given her cheeks a quiet subdued warmth. Her sight had improved and now she seemed perfectly happy.
The door of her room opened and Angela entered on tiptoe. She kissed her on her eyes, squeezing her hand, and pressing her mouth to her ear whispered something. Mother Barton came to a sitting position, and peering from half-shut eyes spat out her disapproval into Angela’s face. Angela protested. Mother Barton was violent in her insistence. She refused to acta against her will. The conflict proceeded into a crescendo of gasps and whispers. Angela persuaded. Mother Barton rebuked. Their patience was at an end, and Angela in a fever of indignation flung the door open and summoned Rose to the room. Mother Barton lay back quietly her lids pressed to her eyes, her hand locked across her breast. Rose entered, and knelt beside the bed, remembering for a split second that it was their second reunion.
Angela left the room, and for a while Mother Barton felt empty and dejected…. In spite of all that happened she had insisted on seeing Rose again, and now she and Rose, whom she thought so hateful and wretched, were in the same
room…. No word was spoken until Mother Barton craned her body up, and groped about the room.
(George Lamming, “Of Thorns and Thistles”)
(a) What did Angela do that indicates she did not want to disturb Mother Barton too much?
(b) What effect does the use of short sentences in the middle of paragraph 2 have on the plot?
(c) What was Mother Barton’s normal attitude to Angela?
(d) What kind of atmosphere normally existed in Mother Barton’s bedroom?
(e)How did Mother Barton react to what Angela whispered in her ears?
(f) What does the author suggest about Mother Barton by describing her change of posture in the last two sentences in paragraph 2?
(g)Why do you think Mother Barton locked her hands across her breast?
(h) What do the following phrases together say about Mother Barton: “squinted continually,” “lingering stains of witch-hazel” (paragraph 1); “peering from half-shut eyes,” “the conflict proceeded into a crescendo,” (paragraph 2); “felt empty and dejected,” (paragraph 3)?
THE PASSAGE
Comprehending an advertisement
Read the following advertisement carefully. Then answer items 1-5 based on what is stated or implied.
SHALIMAR
1. Like every woman, every great perfume has both an outer impression and a deeper, inner mood.
How many bold smiles reveal an inner shyness?
5. How many accidental touches are meant as an inner embrace, warm and loving?
Outwardly, SHALIMAR expresses elegance, calm … a serene femininity,
But stay with the magnificent scent long enough 10. and you will discover its inner mood … a clipper ship slicing through the seas, the power of a storm about to break, a deep sensuality waiting to be released.
You don’t just dab on a perfume like SHALIMAR 15. You wear it body and soul.
1. The quality of the perfume BEST suggested by lines 11-13 is its
(A) magic (B) confidence (C) beauty (D) potency
2. The phrase which gives the LEAST abstract description of the product’s qualities is
(A) “inner mood” (lines 2, 3) (C) “body and soul” (line 15)
(B) “magnificent scent” (line 9) (D) “power of a storm” (line 12)
3. The advertisement is worded to appeal mainly to women who
(A) wish to be attractive (C) know their inner moods
(B) know about perfumes (D) enjoy outdoor living
4. The advertisement suggests that the MOST attractive women are those who
(A) reveal hidden sensuality (C) are forward in their behaviour
(B) enjoy the energy of storms (D) speak with composure and elegance
5. The advertisement appeals to women who need to project
(A) intelligence in social behaviour
(B) strength of personality
(C) gracefulness and refinement
(D) a cheerful outlook in life
Write a short story.
Write a short story basedon these lines: As I stepped through the front gate, I felt something different. There was the unusual smell of newly-cut grass, the flower beds were dark black from receiving a wetting, and mother was swinging in the downstairs hammock.
If the doors of perceptionsbe cleansed everything would appear as it is, infinite.
WILLIAM BLAKE (1757-1827) A Memorable Fancy, pl. 14
EVIDENCE-based dentistry and the assessment of dental care within the community have become of greater interest since the introduction of the purchaser-provider split. There seem to be so many definitions of health services research that health professionals providing the care to patients are unsure of what this new subject is all about. Indeed, some of the more cynical have suggested that it is a surrogate measure for rationing health care.
When the Minister of (Public) Health initiated the formation of a National Oversight Committee for chronic non-communicable diseases, I recall writing in this column in late 1998 with a very similar suggestion. I had proposed the formation of a National Centre for Disease Control, which would combat and control chronic diseases holistically. Obviously, dental caries and periodontal disease would be included. One major reason is to equilibrate priority at the administrative level, and another is to emphasise the interrelation among the conditions. Health services research for developmental change is an important key to success.
Undoubtedly, ‘doctor knows best’ is no longer an acceptable reason for offering a particular solution to a patient’s ills. Governments and insurance companies want to know that a clinical treatment works and are looking for a treatment that gives the most benefit and the least cost. Detailed studies must be done before huge healthcare investments to ensure a balance between maximum population coverage, minimum costs and best clinical care.
Dental health services research may well be able to help all concerned by making sure the practitioners, patients and funding agencies work together for the greatest health gain. This may be a utopian ideal, but there is no doubt that health services research has much to offer.
One point should be made quite clear. Health services research is not a management tool dealing with the collection of data. The discipline represents an ethos of accountability and inquiry concerning dental health services. It is about trying to define and redefine the best way optimal oral health can be delivered to the greatest number of people. It, therefore, encompasses health promotion, disease prevention and service delivery involving general health – in both the public and private sectors.
The development of health services research has been driven by a growing recognition amongst health care administration, politicians and clinicians that increasing the resources dedicated to a service does not necessarily lead to greater ‘health output’. For example, having more dentists per head of population does not necessarily decrease the amount of dental ill-health suffered by the public. Brazil is a classic example.
Many factors impinge upon this mission to find the means of providing dental care to as many people as possible at the most acceptable cost. Dentistry cannot expect to command national resources unless the amount of benefit accrued per dollar spent can be measured and, even more importantly, justified. Therefore, the ultimate assessment of any dental health service to be instituted should be expressed in the form of the benefit and the cost to the patient and the funding agency providing it. In the final analyses, all chronic diseases affecting the population should be equally considered and there must be absolute justification from all angles viewed based on the input of all involved.
