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AS we celebrate our 52nd anniversary of Independence it is good to take stock and look at “from whence we came”.

As it is in our own lives, the country has grown since its birth as an independent nation, complete with failures and successes, suffering and joy all a part of the experience of growth and progress.

Being just slightly older than our Independence, I feel the effects of the passage of time on my body and mind including all the ups and downs. As I get older, I realise more and more how important our health is, both mentally and physically.

Likewise, our country’s health is very important. According to recent studies, ours appears to be in decline as obesity rates (which lead to many non-communicable diseases) and suicide rates are rising to concerning levels.

culture of the country, the primary architect of who we are is us. So, if we know that our health – physical and mental – is at risk and taking us on a path to failure – which is indeed deadly – it is incumbent on us to change course.

We are renowned for our kind and gracious people, as much as our bad seeds. We are known for our beautiful cultural festival called Junkanoo. We have much to be thankful for as a people, and how the world marks the manner of our bearing, but we all know the parts of our nature and culture in our beautiful Bahamas that are less than appealing.

“If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got.” - Albert Einstein.

It is time for us to reckon with the one in the mirror and think of how we as a people can shift the part of our culture (our collective defining habits) that has resulted in the health crisis we now face.

As I have learned with my own health travails, the problems that are now besetting us did not just suddenly come to be but are the result of years of unhealthy habits – both physically and mentally. When we discover the health crisis, we are moving towards the best course of action is to chart a new and different course, one that is healthier of course.

In keeping with the analogy, to seek help and guidance in bettering our health we must go to a doctor, however, a physician can only assist in your journey to wellness. Without your own individual effort to improve your health a doctor’s help will be undermined and even become ineffectual.

Government, likewise, is not the solution to all our problems; and I am loath to make the analogy of doctors to politicians, but here we are.

However, government is responsible to set the course of laws and regulations and create the environment for healthier options to be available and affordable to all, the citizens then must be responsible to take control of their individual progress in healthier living.

And while the government does play a role in contributing to the

Obesity is such a dangerous physical state to allow yourself to become trapped in. Chronic diseases are hard to overcome and can be crippling to your life and ultimately lead to an untimely death. It takes effort to breaking the habits that lead to being overweight, which doesn’t just happen from eating too much, but can come from eating unhealthy foods.

Shifting to healthier lifestyles and stronger communities will help us come together as people and rekindle the spirit of being our neighbour’s keeper. Technology has assisted in bringing us closer together and further apart all at the same time. We must not forget the basic need of real human contact as an essential part of our humanity.

None of the remedies require the interference of government; however, government can help facilitate a better environment and affordable access to medical and nutritional care as well as fostering more community driven programmes that bring people together in positive, healthy activities.

As we celebrate this Independence, let us think about the way forward, upward, onward, together to a healthier and happier Bahamas. Together, in love and unity we can make our country even better one day at a time.

“Status quo is Latin for, ‘The mess we’re in.’”Unknown

Moving forward unhindered by shackles of the past

By TIMOTHY ROBERTS

Stop reaching for greatness by settling for mediocrity: The urgent call to live fully

By FR SCOTT JUPP

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14

In a world brimming with opportunity, why are so many settling for less? We are witnessing a widespread phenomenon: individuals resigned to lives of mediocrity, content with jobs that drain their spirit, careers that lack purpose, and routines that stifle growth. People talk about dreams and aspirations but take no meaningful action to realise them. This complacency not only hampers personal fulfillment but also the collective progress of our communities and nations.

A reflection from the Philippine church

Historically, the Philippine church has faced numerous challenges— waves of colonial rule, social upheavals, economic struggles, and spiritual complacency. Despite these trials, the church has always been a beacon of hope, calling its members to higher purpose and divine excellence. Yet, even within this resilient faith community, there have been moments of complacency—where believers settle for superficial spirituality instead of pursuing a deeper, transformative relationship with God. This pattern of settling for mediocrity isn’t confined to the church alone; it mirrors a broader societal tendency to accept comfort over challenge, routine over growth. The Filipino church’s past struggles remind us that true greatness requires effort, perseverance, and a refusal to settle for less, especially when God’s calling is to live with purpose and impact.

The illusion of comfort in mediocrity

Many settle into unfulfilling careers because they believe stability is the ultimate goal. They

forsake their passions, ignore their potential, and accept a life of routine, convinced that comfort outweighs purpose. Yet, this comfort is fleeting. It masks a deeper dissatisfaction—an unfulfilled craving for meaning and growth. Settling for mediocrity is a silent betrayal of one’s true potential.

The cost of complacency

Choosing mediocrity over excellence has profound consequences. On a personal level, it leads to regret, missed opportunities, and a sense of wasted potential. Professionally, it stagnates innovation and progress. Societally, it dampens the collective drive for excellence that pushes humanity forward. The world doesn’t change by those who accept the status quo; it evolves through the bold actions of those daring enough to aim higher.

The power of education and self-improvement

Education and continuous selfimprovement are the catalysts for transformation. Yet, many neglect these avenues, content to remain stagnant. Learning doesn’t end after school; it is a lifelong journey. Embracing curiosity, seeking knowledge, and developing new skills are essential steps toward breaking free from mediocrity. The greatest achievements in history were born from relentless pursuit of growth.

Talking without acting:

The greatest barrier It is easier to talk about dreams than to pursue them. Too many are caught in a cycle of idle chatter, making grand plans but taking no concrete steps. Words without action are empty. Real change begins with small, deliberate actions — each step bringing us closer to our true potential. We must move beyond talk and into meaningful action.

Scott Jupp

A call to action

The time has come to reject mediocrity and embrace greatness. This requires courage—to face fears, to step outside comfort zones, and to commit to continuous growth. It demands honesty—to assess whether our current lives align with our deepest aspirations. And it calls for resilience—to persevere through setbacks and doubts.

Your life is your greatest investment Remember, your life is the most valuable asset you possess. Don’t squander it chasing fleeting comfort or settling for less. Aim higher. Educate yourself. Take bold actions. Live intentionally. The world needs your unique talents, your passions, and your courage.

Conclusion Settling for mediocrity is a silent acceptance of a life half-lived. But greatness is within reach for those willing to pursue it with conviction. Stop talking about what you want to do—start doing it. Break free from the chains of complacency and step into a life of purpose, growth, and fulfillment. The choice is yours. Make it count.

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 3:14

Are you ready to stop reaching for greatness by doing mediocre things? The time to act is now.

FATHER

They made the cut! Nine talented kids accepted for ‘Tellabration: Lights! Culture! Action!’ Bahamian culture & acting workshop

The stage is set, the cameras are ready, and nine talented kids are about to bring culture to life in a bold, creative way! “Tellabration: Lights! Culture! Action!” isn’t your average summer intensive workshop — it’s a dynamic, immersive, child-led acting and storytelling experience designed to celebrate and reimagine Bahamian heritage through film and performance arts.

A pool of gifted applicants, the nine rising

stars — Maria Clara Kool Modesto Lopes, Vesper Cepeda, Tatiana Russell, Sabrina Thomas, Scarlet Chipman, Caerwyn Turnquest, Daniel Mensa-Johnson, Marlee Poitier, and Kymani Poitier — are gearing up to debut in an all-new, culturally rich adaptation of the beloved fairytale, “The Three Little Pigs.” Retitled “The Three Lil’ P. higgs,” this Bahamian version infuses the timeless “rule of three” with what author-screenwriter

B. Jane Turnquest and set designer Chrisnell Gordon call “sun, sand, salt, and storytelling.” This fresh take on the classic tale is tailored to be relevant, redemptive, and resonant for Bahamians and residents alike — an homage to our traditions, humour, resilience, and everyday realities.

The production is not only culturally reflective but also child-led, with cast members actively contributing to

the development of their characters and the shaping of archetypes and storylines. What Bahamian stereotypes will show up? What familiar traits will be flipped or celebrated? Audiences will have to wait and see how these young actors bring authenticity, ingenuity, and heart to the screen.

Beyond entertainment, the benefits of performing arts for youth are transformative:

• Boosts confidence

and self-esteem

• Enhances communication skills

• Fosters creativity and imagination

• Teaches teamwork and collaboration

• Improves emotional intelligence

• Develops discipline and focus

• Encourages adaptability and problem-solving

• Provides a safe space for self-expression

Chrisnell Gordon, the art director states that, ‘These life skills are

invaluable — shaping not just great performers but thoughtful, expressive, and resilient individuals.”

The short film will premiere on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in celebration of Bahamas Independence Day, marking a proud and powerful moment in youth development and national storytelling. Audiences can view on ‘Tellabration’ the company’s Facebook page. Get ready, Bahamas — it’s time for Lights! Culture! Action!

WE RISE TOGETHER:

Songwriter’s new song to celebrate

The Bahamas 52nd Independence Anniversary

By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer

As the country prepares to celebrate its 52nd Independence Anniversary, a Bahamian songwriter has reiginited his passion for songwriting with a special song to mark the occasion.

Music defined Jamal Brown’s family. Growing up, he and his seven siblings were very active in the music ministry at the church his father pastored - Deliverance Revival Centre. When he was not singing at church, he was a member of his primary school’s EP Roberts and high school SC McPherson’s choirs performing at various events all over the country. He also tried his hand at composing, writing a song called I Love My Island. When Jamal left The Bahamas for

college in 1998, he carried his musical passion with him - although it was not as vibrant as it was when he was at home.“I have to admit that I didn’t do a lot musically since I left home.” He was focused on building his career in the mortuary science field, until a few years ago when a tragic car accident left him partially paralysed for several months.“I was thankfully, able to regain the ability to walk again, but after my recovery, I did not have the physical strength which is required for embalming and so I left the field and started a new career in insurance. Today, he is a district manager for a Fortune 500 company. But his passion was reignited with a conversation he had with his former music teacher.“I am in a Bahamian group online and Antoinette

“I wrote the lyrics and then I got my kids to record it with me, even though we live in Florida, they love The Bahamas and are always asking me why we don’t move to the Bahamas to live. So they were super excited to go with me into the studio and record.”

Thompson, who was my teacher at SC McPherson, messaged me and asked me why I had not done anything musically in a while and that and seeing all the activity on the Bahamas Independence page just ignited something inside me.”

And for the first time in a long while, he sat down and composed a song that encapusalted just how much he loves his country and all his hopes and dreams for it.With the assistance of musical composer Lugiano Rosaria, he has recorded the song and is gifting it to his fellow Bahamians as a 52nd anniversary gift. “I wrote the lyrics

and then I got my kids to record it with me, even though we live in Florida, they love The Bahamas and are always asking me why we don’t move to the Bahamas to live. So they were super excited to go with me into the studio and record. And since then my entire extended family has been singing it.” Jamal says that this was the catalyst he needed to expand his musical gifts (he also plays guitar and flute) and is excited for future musical projects. The song is called We Rise Together and Jamal wants it to be a call for togetherness and upliftment. “When Lugiano Rosaria was composing the music, he asked me if I wanted it to have a traditional island Junkanoo beat, but I told him no, because I really didn’t want the message and meaning of the song to be lost in the music,” he said.“When Bahamians hear this song,I want them to remember that we stand and we rise together admist all the trouble. We Rise Together is currently on rotation on several Bahamian radio stations and online.He shares the lyrics below so that Tribune readers can also benefit from the songs inspiration.

We Rise Together lyrics

Together we rise, divided we fall We are a people, united one for all The sun, sand, and sea, forever we will be A beautiful creation, for all the world to seeWe stand together We walk together We rise together Let’s wave our banners high, showing all our pride Striving together in peace and unity Pressing, moving forward, upward and onward Freedom has called us, to lift our heads and sing Forward we’re moving together Onward we’re marching together Upward we’re rising together We stand together We walk together. We rise together Together we rise, divided we fall. We are a people, united one for all We rise together.

(Jamal Brown, Words Luigino Rosaria and Jamal Brown, Music Luigino Rosaria, Production)

JAMAL, Malachi and Milah Brown

SONGWRITER, Jamal Brown