The Resilience of Caribbean People

The resilience of Caribbean people.

C’mon. Let’s face it. We are.

In my travels around the world, I’ve met scores of Caribbean people. They’ve each shared a piece of their story with me – specifically, what made them leave their home to go and live somewhere else? So far, so abnormal, so different from what they knew?

They gave up the commonality, the comfortability, the familiarity of their home land in search of something else…

When I heard some of their stories, I was just in awe of their life experiences. The hand that life dealt them wasn’t easy and in some instances it continues to dish out. Yet, they still march on.

They thrive in their new environment, but sometimes, not without a yearn for that place in the Caribbean they call home…

So, I big up my Caribbean people.

But,

When I sit and think about it, I have to acknowledge all people.

All people who moved out of their cocoon, their stable, happy place, in search of job opportunities, schooling or even safety. Not knowing if they would ever return…

It takes a courage and a strength to leave it all behind.

A resilience to survive, regardless.

I say power to you….

Some people say I brave. No sah!

Not like some ah yall.

I know I couldn’t do this without whatsapp call – eh eh.

What comforts me in my travels is that everywhere I go, I go with a temporary mentality.

I’m only here for a year.
I can always go back home.
I have a home to go home to.

The fact that there is a space and place that’s familiar to me – my own paradise. Filled with family and friends and so much love. Always ready to welcome me with open arms when I return.

I haven’t decided to move anywhere permanently. And I don’t know if I would. I yearn that familiarity too much.

But this is said from someone who has a choice. A privilege as I recognize not many people are fortunate enough to be in that position and I’m lucky to be one of the few.

However, it makes them all the more strong. Cause I dunno if it coulda be me.

The resilience of Caribbean people.

The resilience of all people.

It’s one to be recognized.
One to be admired.
One to be treasured.

Big up yourselves yall. Big up ya selves.

Yours Truly,

Global Gyal