Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Feb/March 2023

Happy Holi

Holi, also known as the "Festival of Colors" or "Phagwah," is a Hindu spring festival that is celebrated all over the world and is one of our favorite festivals across the Caribbean. It is an ancient Hindu festival that is usually celebrated inFebruaryorMarch.

This vibrant and colorful festival marks the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the end of winter. During the festival, people play with colors (powder, paint, powder and water), there are dancers, singing, musical presentations and enjoy delicious food andsweets.

Holi is celebrated by the Hindu communityallovertheworld,andithas become a popular festival among people of other religions as well. In Central Florida, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm. This year's celebrations tookplaceinFestivalPark,wherepeople came together to play, dance, and enjoy delicious food and remarkable performances

"From the Management & Staff o the Caribbean American Passport News Magazine"

Mardi Gras & Carnival

Mardi Gras and Caribbean Carnivals are two of the most vibrant and exciting cultural events in the world. They both feature lively music, colorful costumes, and elaborate parades that attract millionsofvisitorseachyear.Whilethey may seem very different on the surface, there are actually many similarities betweenthesetwocelebrations.

Mardi Gras is a celebration that takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana, and otherpartsoftheUnitedStates.

The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to ancient Roman celebrations of Saturnalia and Lupercalia, which were later adoptedbytheCatholicChurchasa waytocelebratebeforetheseasonof Lent. Today, Mardi Gras is a time for revelry and excess, with parades, parties,andelaboratecostumes.

Caribbean Carnivals, on the other hand, are a series of celebrations thattakeplace... Continued on page 9

Mardi Gras Costume

Carnival Costume

Gittens-Roberts Owner/Publisher/Editor

LIFEST Y LE

Respect and Celebrating Different Religions in the Caribbean Community

Samuel J. Roberts

Owner/Publisher/Editor

The Caribbean is a melting pot of various religions and cultures, with people of different faiths living together harmoniously. This month, we will witness at least seven days of fasting for Hindus and Muslims, and 11 days when all three religious communities will come together to pray and atone. It is a testament to the Caribbean community's diversity and unity, which values different religions and celebrations as integralpartsofouridentity.

Respect for different religions is a fundamental aspect of our community. The Caribbean community has a rich history of diverse religious practices spanning centuries. The region is predominantly Christian, but it is also home to other faiths like Hinduism, Islam, and Rastafarianism. We must celebrate and respect the different religious traditions and practices as part of our Caribbean heritage. It is essential to recognize and embrace the different cultural and religious practices that make our region unique, and it promotes mutual understanding and promotes love and peace within our communities.

In the coming days, we will witness significant religious festivals celebrated by different faiths in the Caribbean. Shubh Navratri will be celebrated for nine days by Hindus worldwide, marking the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of harvest. It is a time of fasting, praying, and celebrating the feminine divine. Muslims worldwide will observe Ramadan Mubarak, a holy month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. Lent, observed by Christians around the world, is a time of sacrifice, prayer, and renewal. Each of these observances reminds us of the importance of faith, sacrifice,community,andcompassion.

In the Caribbean community, these religious festivals are celebrated with much fervor and enthusiasm. Temples, mosques, and churches become places of atonement, gratitude, and prayer. Communities come together to connect, reflect, pray, and share special meals. It is a time whentheCaribbeanspiritofunityisatitsmostvibrant.

We must celebrate the diversity of religions and cultures in the Caribbean community by learning more about each other's traditions. The more we know about different religions, the better we can understand and support our neighbors of different faiths. We can visit our neighbors' religious institutions, learn about their customs, and share our experiences.

We can organize community events to share and celebrate different religious festivals, strengthening our communitybonds.

We must cherish and respect the diversity of religious beliefs and practices in the Caribbean community. As we strive for unity, we should celebrate and support each other's faiths, cultures, and traditions. The upcoming religious festivals present an opportunity for us to come together as a community to foster mutual understanding, peace,andlove.

Let us embrace each other's diversity and celebrate the beauty of our Caribbean heritage. Shubh Navratri to our Hindu brothers and sisters, Ramadan Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters, and a Blessed Lent to our Christianbrothersandsisters

1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925

Toll Free: 877-220-8315

For Media Information email: Publisher: sroberts@caribbeanamericanpassport.com Info: .Info@caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Should you desire to review past copies of the publication go to http:// caribbeanamericanpassport.com and click on the 'Print Archive'.

Publisher&Editor...................................................................................Sam Roberts

Publisher ............................................................................. Guenet Gittens-Roberts

Editor&ContributingWriter ....Aleia Roberts

Contributing Writers: Tony Dyal

Contributing Photographers King Visual

Dillia Castillo

Central Florida Distribution......................................................... .Danielle Browne

South Florida Distribution.............................................................Norman Williams

NorthFlorida Distribution Kadeem Roberts

Tampa Distribution...................................................................................Julian Pina

Copyright (C) 2016 GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.

www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com

Guenet

Black History Month

By Staff Writer

Black History Month is an annual observance that takes place every February in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The month is dedicated to celebrating the contributions and achievements of Black people throughout history, as well as raising awareness of the ongoing struggles faced by Black communities. As we reflect on Black History Month 2023, it is important to consider the historical figures who have shaped the Black experience, including those who wereofCaribbeanorigin.

One such figure is Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican-born Black nationalist who founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League. Garvey advocated for the unity and empowerment of Black people worldwide,andhismessageofBlackprideandself-sufficiency resonated with millions of people during the early 20th century.

Another important Caribbean-born historical figure is CLR James, a Trinidadian historian, journalist, and political theorist who was a leading figure in the Pan-African movement. James was an advocate for the liberation of colonized peoples and the overthrow of imperialism, and his writings and speeches continue to inspire activists around the world.

In addition to these well-known figures, there are countless other Black historical figures of Caribbean origin who have made significant contributions to their fields. For example, theJamaican-bornscientistPatriciaBathinventedamethod forcataractsurgerythathashelpedmillionsofpeopleregain theirvision.

The Trinidadian writer V.S. Naipaul won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001 for his novels exploring colonialism and the immigrant experience. And the Haitian-American dancer and choreographer Katherine Dunham revolutionizedmoderndancewithherfusionofAfricanand Caribbeanrhythms.

AswecelebrateBlackHistoryMonth2023,itisimportantto remember that Black history is not just American history, butaglobalhistorythatincludesthecontributionsofpeople ofCaribbeanoriginandfromallcorners.

Marijuana Use Poses Great Risks for Adolescents

Editor’s note: This commentary is provided by the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) of Florida A&M University.

Every parent knows the challenges that come with raising a child going through adolescence. It’s a period during which many youths cope with anxieties related to peer pressure, schoolwork, family life or other personal struggles. It’s also a time when young people’s brains are still developing, a phase that usually lasts until they are about 25 years old. Dr. Miriam Mandel describes the teen brain as a “huge construction site,” the kind of workplace where marijuana use is best avoided.

Dr. Mandel, a board-certified pediatrician in Ohio says teens using recreational or street marijuana may experience cognitive and behavioral problems, including memory lapses, brain fog, insomnia, major depressive disorder, anxiety, and or paranoia. She warns that those using cannabis with high potency THC Tetrahydrocannabinol) are at risk of psychosis, such as schizophrenia, which she says typically emerges during the adolescent years.

While frequent pot use is not good for youths’ behavioral health and can cause depression, “there are no statistics to support there is actual marijuana causing suicide,” says Dr. Lyn-Lassiter, a qualified medical marijuana and a licensed emergency medicine physician practicing in South Florida.

However, Dr. Mandel said there are studies showing a

correlation between “chronic” use and suicide. “This chronic use may start a slow creeping anxiety and/or depression, and they may need more marijuana to satisfy their anxiety relief. We know there's a much stronger correlation between suicide and depression, so the studies are not saying that marijuana is a cause of suicide, it's correlated,” she explained.

Both doctors encourage parents to educate themselves — and their children — on marijuana and recommend the National Institute of Drug Abuse’s website, https:// nida.nih.gov, as a good resource for information.“If alot of these kids in high school and college knew some of the risks that they're doing to their developing brain, such as how marijuana lowers their IQ, changes their concentration, increases their risk of mental health issues and greatly affects their attention, they wouldn't do it,” Dr. Mandel says.

Visit https://bit.ly/CannabisYouthRisk to watch MMERI’s Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum featuring board-certified pediatrician Dr. Miriam Mandel and Dr. Safiya Lyn-Lassiter, a Florida qualified medical marijuana physician, discuss why marijuana use is causing some teens and young adults to consider suicide.

International Reggae Month

February is International Reggae Month, a global celebration of the music and culture that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. The month-long celebration is dedicated to the promotion, preservation, and recognition of reggae music anditsimpactontheworld.

Reggae music has its roots in Jamaica's rich musical heritage, combining elements of ska, rocksteady, and R&B. It was popularizedbythelegendaryBobMarley,whousedhismusic as a powerful tool to promote peace, love, and social justice around the world. Marley's music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans, and his birthday onFebruary6thiscelebratedasanationalholidayinJamaica.

International Reggae Month features a range of events, including concerts, workshops, and panel discussions, showcasing the diversity and creativity of reggae music. The celebration highlights the importance of reggae music as a unifying force that transcends borders and brings people together, promoting a message of love, unity, and social justice.

In addition to celebrating the music, International Reggae Month also aims to raise awareness of the social and economic issues facing Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region.

It provides an opportunity to support and promote the development of the reggae music industry and its impact onJamaica'seconomyandculturalheritage.

International Reggae Month is a time to celebrate the legacy of Bob Marley and the impact of reggae music on the world. It is a reminder of the power of music to inspire change,promoteunity,andcelebratediversity.

All Mas Bands, all Masqueraders, Soca lovers, all Carnival people, all Caribbean people, all fete lovers, all culture lovers....everybody come join us for the Official OCD 'Kick-Off' 2023

TRUE FORGIVENESS: THE KEY TO UNLOCKING YOUR DIVINE DESTINY

Apostle Dr. S. Regina Pierre Robertson New Dimensions Global

Have you ever heard it said that forgiveness is not about others, it is about you. This statement is true. Nevertheless, in its totality, it cannot be envisioned or understood to the fullest, if we negate the inclusion of culture, race, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, cultural norms, and mores which changes from time to time, and from place to place. Individually or collectively, these variables have the propensity to cloud our vision and decision-making capabilities as they are constantly impinging on His Truth about what forgiveness is and is not. Yet, the authenticity, veracity, and implications of what forgiveness really entails can only be understood in its entirety when placed within its proper context, which is this; Forgiveness in the eyes of yourCreator is a constant, His Word is immutable, and does not change irrespective of the circumstances you have had to encounter. This reality is laid at your feet because of a reasonable, yet deeply profound question asked by the Disciple Peter, “Lord how many times must I forgive anyone who comes against me? Up to seventy times?” Peter posed the question, then added what he believed to be a reasonable answer. But Peter was given a reply, which on the surface appeared to be an insurmountable feat, an impossible undertaking, one loaded with that which was meant to convey an indelible truth to you and I about “loving your brother as you say you love your Creator” Thus, the answer came, “No Peter, up to seventy times seven in one day,” thus alluding to His Eternal Truth that each day brings with it a new start to the count of forgiveness; yesterday’s count cannot be rolledoverintotoday’scount.

Having understood this, we are therefore brought to a new dimension of enlightenment about the genesis of His expectations of us, which is this, “True Forgiveness occurswhen those emotions of unforgiveness are changed to warm,loving,compassion,caring,altruistic emotions resulting from a heartfelt transformation. Forgiveness is both an act and a process” (Everette Worthington Jr. Care and Counsel Bible, 2001). Thus, the power of this process rest in the love and compassion we demonstrate toward each other. Indeed, ThePowerIsinTheLove.

As you pursue this journey to apprehend your Divine Destiny, it is important to note that forgiveness has a flip side whose name is unforgiveness. So, what is unforgiveness about. Again, Worthington Jr. (2001) schools us on this truth, that “Unforgiveness is a set of delayed emotions that consists of resentment, bitterness, hatred, hostility, anger, and fear. These emotions arise in a person because of a transgression that has wounded them psychologically or physically.” And, though the writer reminds us that the emotions of anger andfear are not to be linked to unforgiveness, we are to be cognizant of the fact that where there is constant mental repetition of these emotions, where you find it difficult to release yourself or others for an “offense” this has the potential to eventually lead to unforgiveness. Keeping this in mind; have you ever been told, or said to

someone, “It's Ok, I forgive you.” Sounds easy does it not. But it is easier said than done, for it takes courage to forgive others

and yourself. Forgiveness is not an overnight feat or accomplishment. Or have you ever said or been told,“I’ll never forgive you.” Words that are repeated because of the depth and intensity of the pain, shame, and stigma emanating from the crucibles of your soul. Therefore, a deliberate decision is made not to address the “why” of an offense. This decision creates a perfect storm for the accumulation and accommodation of a plethora of erroneous information. Thus, a scenario is now set to take you down a road of self-depreciation and self-doubt with all the implications that are tied to becoming overwhelmed by the issues and circumstances of life, meanwhile nurturing a mindset that is counter productivetoyourreasonforbeingonthisearth.

Understanding these occurrences, leads to a conscious awakening which brings you to the realization that the process of becoming your authentic self is uniquely tied to the mission you were sent to accomplish on behalf of the One who created you. Once it is understood that being here was never about you, your focus changes and it becomes evident that a shift, a transformation is required to move you from your current psychological place of abode. It takes a new mindset to catapult you “there” to embrace His truth that the time is now, if ever, to embrace new learning, unlearn erroneous information, and relearn about the power that lies withintheprocessofforgiveness.

Forgiveness is about going to a new dimension in your spirit to unlock and release the chains of unforgiveness which have kept your soul in prison. A place where negative emotions have held you captive because of your inability or unwillingness to let go of past and present incidents and accidents; where your mind, will, emotions and your body can only be released when you make an intentional and free will decision to forgive others, and most importantly, yourself. Suffice it to say that Forgiveness is the panacea, the treatment modality for learning new ways of letting go and letting God take care of instances of those things which you have allowed to hold you hostage. A stumbling block to your forward move andprogressinlife.

Whatever your stumbling block is, you must be prepared to embrace the courage and strength to recognize, categorize, and address the problem. Wherever it is planted it must be uprooted and destroyed through forgiveness. Even when you have experienced mental, physical, psychological, financial, and even spiritual abuse, be willing to admit that Your Divine Purpose and Destiny is incumbent upon your brevity to seek the support, that is needed to be free in every aspect of your being. If you have convinced yourself that you are unable to do so independently, know that you are not alone. You are never alone. Let nothing deter you form seeking, accepting, and embracing the keys to unlocking your Divine Destiny. Forgiveness is Life Changing. It Belongsto You. Embrace It.

Mardi Gras & Carnival.

Caribbean islands and in Caribbean communities around the world. The origins of these carnivals can be traced back to the African and European cultural traditions that were brought to the Caribbean during the colonial period. Today, Caribbean Carnivals are a time for celebration and cultural pride, with music, dancing, and colorful costumes that reflect the diverse cultural influences of the Caribbean.

Despite their different origins, Mardi Gras and Carnival share many similarities. One of the most obvious similarities is the emphasis on colorful costumes and elaborate parades. Both celebrations feature elaborate floats and dancers in bright, eye-catching costumes that are designed to capture the attention of spectators. Another similarity between Mardi Gras and Caribbean Carnivals is the importance of music and dancing. Both celebrations feature lively music that is meant to get people dancing and celebrating. In New Orleans, the music of Mardi Gras is typically jazz and blues, while in theCaribbean,themusicisamixofAfricanandEuropean influences,includingsoca,calypso,andreggae.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, both Mardi Gras and Caribbean Carnivals are celebrations of cultural identity and pride. Mardi Gras celebrates the unique cultural heritage of New Orleans and the United States, while Caribbean Carnivals celebrate the diverse cultural influences of the Caribbean. Both celebrations are a way for people to come togetherandcelebratetheirsharedhistoryandtraditions.

Both celebrations are marked by colorful costumes, lively music, and elaborate parades, and both are a celebration of cultural identity and pride. Whether you are in New Orleans, the Caribbean, or a member of the Diaspora celebrating carnival abroad, these celebrations are a chance to let loose and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of these vibrant communities.

We must learn to celebrate our diversity, our similarity and our differences with the same passion. Only through understanding, engagement and open-mindedness can we trulyleantosharethisbeautifulWorldofOURS!!!

- Top right Picture - 'Trinidad Carnival

-Top left Picture - 'New Orleans - King Zulu 2022'

-Above Picture - Rio Carnaval

-Bottom right Picture - Trinidad Carnival 2023

The Legal Dilemma of Medical Marijuana

The legal dilemma surrounding medical marijuana and those currently incarcerated for use, sale, or distribution of marijuana is a highly contentious issue with no clear consensus on how it should be addressed. While many states have legalized the medicinal use of cannabis, federal law still prohibits it. This means that individuals in those states can still be prosecuted under federal law if they are caught with marijuana, even if it is for medical use. Furthermore, those who have been previously convicted of marijuana-related offenses may still be serving sentences despitethechanginglawsintheirstate.

The conflicting federal and state laws have created a complicated landscape for individuals seeking access to medical marijuana. In some cases, individuals have been denied access to medical marijuana due to their prior convictions.

In addition, those who are currently incarcerated for marijuana-related offenses may not be eligible for parole or early release because of the federal restrictionsontheirsentence.

There is an urgent need for reform in this area. The legalization of medical marijuana should be accompanied by clemency for those already serving sentences for cannabis-related offenses and a review of existing laws and policies related to access to medical marijuana. This would help ensure that individuals have the access they need while also upholding the law. Additionally, efforts should be made to provide resources and support to those who wish to transition into legitimate businesses upon release from prison, so they can take advantage of the new opportunities available with state-legalized cannabismarkets.

Mental Health & Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana has become an increasingly popular treatment option for a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and schizophrenia. As more and more states in the US and countries around the world legalize cannabis for medical purposes, researchers are beginning to uncover the potential benefits and risks of using marijuana to manage mentalhealthsymptoms.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions that medical marijuana is used to treat. Studies have shown that the active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, can help reduce feelings of anxiety by interacting with the brain's endocannabinoid system. This system plays a critical role in regulating emotions and stress, and when it is activated by cannabinoids, it can help tocalmthemindandreduceanxietysymptoms.

Depression is another mental health condition that medical marijuana is being investigated for. While more research is needed, some studies have suggested that cannabis can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression by boosting levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a criticalroleinregulatingmoodandemotions.

PTSD is a condition that affects many veterans and survivors of traumatic events, and medical marijuana is becoming an increasingly popular treatment option for this population. Some studies have shown that cannabis can help to reduce symptoms of PTSD by reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing the intensity of traumatic memories.

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that is notoriously difficult to treat, but some researchers are exploring the potential of medical marijuana as a treatment option. While the evidence is limited, some studies have suggested that cannabis may be able to reduce symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions and hallucinations, in people withschizophrenia.

While medical marijuana may hold promise as a treatment for mental health conditions, it is important to note that there are potential risks and side effects associated with its use. As always, it's important to consultadoctorbeforeusage.

People Are Using Marijuana to Treat Anxiety and Depression, but the Science Is Murky - Image from Wall Street Journal

Marijuana is legal for medical purposes in 33 states - Image from VOX

Respecting and Celebrating Different Religions in the Caribbean Community

The Caribbean is a melting pot of various religions and cultures, with people of different faiths living together harmoniously. This month, we will witness at least seven days of fasting for Hindus and Muslims, and 11 days when all three religious communities will come together to pray and atone. It is a testament to the Caribbean community's diversity and unity, which values different religions and celebrationsasintegralpartsofouridentity.

Respect for different religions is a fundamental aspect of our community. The Caribbean community has a rich history of diverse religious practices spanning centuries. The region is predominantly Christian, but it is also home to other faiths like Hinduism, Islam, and Rastafarianism. We must celebrate and respect the different religious traditions and practices as part of our Caribbean heritage. It is essential to recognize and embrace the different cultural and religious practices that make our region unique, and it promotes mutual understanding and promotesloveandpeacewithinourcommunities.

In the coming days, we will witness significant religious festivals celebrated by different faiths in the Caribbean. Shubh Navratri will be celebrated for nine days by Hindus worldwide, marking the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of harvest. It is a time of fasting, praying, and celebrating the feminine divine. Muslims worldwide will observe Ramadan Mubarak, a holy month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. Lent, observed by Christians around the world, is a time of sacrifice, prayer, and renewal. Each of these observances reminds us of the importanceoffaith,sacrifice,community,andcompassion.

In the Caribbean community, these religious festivals are celebrated with much fervor and enthusiasm. Temples, mosques, and churches become places of atonement, gratitude, and prayer. Communities come together to connect, reflect, pray, and share special meals. It is a time whentheCaribbeanspiritofunityisatitsmostvibrant.

We must celebrate the diversity of religions and cultures in the Caribbean community by learning more about each other's traditions. The more we know about different religions, the better we can understand and support our neighbors of different faiths. We can visit our neighbors' religious institutions, learn about their customs, and share our experiences. We can organize community events to share and celebrate different religious festivals, strengtheningourcommunitybonds.

We must cherish and respect the diversity of religious beliefs and practices in the Caribbean community. As we strive for unity, we should celebrate and support each other's faiths, cultures, and traditions. The upcoming religious festivals present an opportunity for us to come together as a community to foster mutual understanding, peace, and love. Let us embrace each other's diversity and celebrate the beauty of our Caribbean heritage. Shubh Navratri to our Hindu brothers and sisters, Ramadan Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters, and a Blessed LenttoourChristianbrothersandsisters.

Tools of the Trade

By Tony Deyal

"DEDICATEDTOSTEVENSAMLALSINGHANDTHEOTHERPRESENTATIONCOLLEGE"BOYS"WHOREACHEDOUTTOME."BILLETTHEKID"RIDESAGAIn".'

In his first book, published in 1994, the great Manchester United goalscorer Ryan Giggs shocked his readers, especially the younger ones, when they reached page 54 and found a double-page, black-and-white photo of his feet. Worse, despite his football feats, his feet were definitely not pleasant to behold. What many readers did not understand is the importance of the tools of our trade and, in the case of Giggs and all other footballers, their feet are what they use to reach any level of the game, especially the highest.

The ‘tools of the trade’ are items that we use to pursue our occupations. The first usage of the term goes back to 1825. Since then, it flourished in words and sentences like, “Giggs decided to put the penalty in the far corner of the goalpost. He nailed it.” In this context, the shovel was a ground-breaking instrument and, when my wife complains that I compulsively buy computer repair equipment, I explain, “It’s not a big deal. It’s my vice.” Or the captain who handed tools to his soldiers standing at attention and shouted, “This is not a drill.” Obviously, where there is language, there are puns like the one about drunken sailors who just landed and boasted, “We’re getting hammered tonight.” Or, when forced to carry huge bags of weapons and ammunition on their backs, they dumped the load in anger with, “Screw this!” Worse was the man who explained, “I was so upset when my drinking buddy called me a tool that I got hammered and nailed his girlfriend.”

PLOT THICKENS

This is where the plot thickens like a footballer’s feet after years of his opponents putting their heavy boots on his toes. The difference between science and the English language is that, in science, everything has a special name that identifies and distinguishes it from all the others. Not so the English language. We have more things than words and thereby hangs my tale today and the tails of many other people who will understand better when I go into detail.

One meaning of “tool” (which goes back to the 1550s) is “someone who lacks the mental capacity to know he or she is being used”. In other words, that tool is definitely not the sharpest tool in the shed and, in terms of his love life, caused me to write, “A tool and his honey are soon parted.” If you think that particular meaning of tool creates problems, consider that in English, ‘penis’ and ‘tool’ are semantically related. You can use ‘penis’ to mean ‘tool’ (and if you’re into this kind of stuff) or vice versa or just vice alone. Since the 1550s, long before tools were tools, ‘tool’ was a synonym for ‘penis’ as well as ‘prick’, ‘shaft’ and ‘wood’. For those who follow the language, that tore it! Additionally, guns are also called “tools”. In fact, the terms ‘tool’ and ‘toolie’ have been used by many rappers, including Eminem, Young Thug and Playboy Carti.

All this leads to really interesting interpretations. For example, why does Popeye’s tool never rust? Because he keeps it in Olive Oil. Before the additional meanings of tool came into wide circulation, we had the question “What’s the most effective tool a woman can use to keep away unwanted men?” The answer then was “detergent” Theanswernowwouldbebasedontheideathat,when

your only tool is a hammer, all problems start looking like nails and that includes getting and pounding your pound of male flesh. The only thing that has not changed is that, whether in the old days or now, a new circumcision tool is cutting-edge technology.

SUBTLETY

English writer, Sir Phillip Pullman, writer of The Subtle Knife, actually showed the increasing subtlety of the word “tool” when he wrote, “The intentions of a tool are what it does. A hammer intends to strike, a vice intends to hold fast, a lever intends to lift. They are what it is made for. But sometimes a tool may have other uses that you don’t know …” I have also got good advice, not just for me but also for my male and female friends, by American author Napoleon Hill, “Start where you stand, and work whatever tools you may have at your command and better tools will be found as you go along.” I can’t say that it is the story of my life but, compared with Napoleon, the only Waterloos I’ve met so far are in Jamaica, Barbados (an alley near the hospital) and Trinidad, as well as the university in Canada.

The fact is that the different meanings of “tool” make it difficult to understand which tool is the subject or the object. One article said that the development of the first tools were in the Stone Age and were used for cutting, chopping and scraping. I disagreed. The originators had to be Adam and Eve. The birth of Cain did not stop Eve from being Abel bodied. Other articles were not just more relevant but also provided great advice for beginners like Adam. For example, Wallace D. Wattles showed his ‘wattlessness’ with, “It is essential to have good tools, but it is also essential that the tools should be used in the right way.” Jeff Bezos, the boss of Amazon, the company and not the river, made a valid point, “We change our tools and then our tools change us.” And, going back to almost the dawn of time, Confucius was on the ball with, “The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools.” Ron Kaufman, the American customer service consultant and keynote speaker, put it in the right context, “Giving great service requires the right people and the right service tools.” However, the best comment on the subject is by Thomas Carlyle, the Scottish philosopher, “Man is a toolusing animal. Without tools he is nothing, with tools he is all.” For those who don’t have the wherewithal to prosper, Aristotle, the Greek philosopher, found out and preached from very early, “The hand is the tool of tools.”

This leads to the question, “Are women equivalent to tools?” Scientific American confirms that “men cognitively register women as objects they can use or act on, like power tools.” But supermodel-actress Cara Delevingne claimed in Planet Sex, a book based on her travels throughout the world to explore gender, sexuality and bedroom fantasies, that men lack the “right tools” to satisfy women sexually. This leaves a lot for us to wonder about instead of wandering.

Fortunately, there is hope for all. American motivational author Louise Hay made it clear that, regardless of sex, size, shape, competence, quality, which side you’re on right now and where the tool of your trade is currently located, “Today is a new day. Today is a day for you to begin creating a joyous, fulfilling life. Today is a day to release all your limitations. Today is the day for you to learn the secrets of life. You can change your life for the better. You already have tools within you to do so ….”