Moulding creativity into craftsmanship at The Guyana Mining School and Training Centre Jewellery-Making Programme
Sunday, March 2, 2025
GUYANA is home to many skilled cultural and creative artisans, many of w hom are self-taught or have learned through family businesses. However, the Government of Guyana is working to educate and equip a new generation of jewellers. The Guyana Mining School and Training Centre, under the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and in collaboration with the Burrowes School of Art, has launched
a little-known project offering one of Guyana’s few jewellery-making classes. This initiative, among a few others, aims to nurture local talent and provide skills for self-employment. Since its inception a few years ago, it has grown significantly. Now, with more than 50 students enrolled in both introductory and intermediate classes, the programme is not only teaching a trade but also opening doors for people of all ages
from across Guyana.
In a conversation with Pepperpot Magazine, Deborah Phillipe, the facilitator for the Introduction to Jewellery class, shared that now in its fourth year, the programme has seen increased student participation. It began with an ambitious class of 38 students, initially split between morning and afternoon sessions. However, demand quickly exceeded expectations. “We started off
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By Shaniya Harding.
FOR most travellers, exploring a country means guided tours and planned itineraries. But for Tilo the Pilgrim, a German hitchhiker making his way across the world, the journey is the destination. In Guyana, he’s traded comfort for the unknown— sleeping in unexpected places, sharing stories with strangers, and navigating the country one ride at a time. From Mahdia’s gold-mining camps to Georgetown’s backstreets, his experience challenges common perceptions of Guyana and offers a raw, unfiltered look at life on the road.
This week, Pepperpot Magazine spoke to Tilo from deep within a mining camp, where he shared how he got to Guyana aboard a cargo ship, what his experience in the Land of Many Waters has been, and what may be his next stop.
First Steps and Impressions
T ilo is not your average tourist. Born and raised in a small village in Germany, the 21-year-old has always had a passion for the world beyond the tourist hotspots and national capitals. Tilo wanted to experience adventure. Just out of high school and with very few resources in hand, he ventured from his small village in the heart of Germany and hitchhiked to Berlin. After working there for several months to raise money to continue across Europe, Tilo t hen sailed across the Atlantic Ocean.
Defying countless
odds and depending solely on the kindness and consideration of others, Tilo made his way to Spain, where he finally found a boat and captain that brought him to Trinidad, then Venezuela, and Grenada.
Guya na is just the second country that
ally love that. I think it's very beautiful," he shared. He further added that,"Guyana is very relaxed. People don' t take things too seriously. It also has like a slower pace, especially i n Georgetown. Even compared to Trinidad, like the capital. You know, people take a lit-
order to work together. Having spent time in Venezuela’s jungle with indigenous tribes, Tilo is no stranger to the art of forming bonds with people. During his short time in Guyana, Tilo says this has come easily. With the fun-loving and hospitable nature of Guyanese, Tilo says
some very interesting restaurants there."
These bold interactions and strong friendships have allowed Tilo to dispel many misconceptions about Guyana.
As he continues to travel through Guyana, Tilo documents his journey, making videos as he visits a variety of places
"Guyana is definitely not as dangerous as people think. Especially if you compare it to other countries ." He added, "I find it to be very safe. I mean, so far, I've travelled everywhere. Like, okay, I kind of hitchhiked a little bit halfway across the country. And, you
Tilo has visited in the Caribbean, with Trinidad being the first.
Similar to most of his travels, Tilo arrived in Guyana aboard a cargo ship. First arriving on the outskirts of Georgetown, Tilo was captivated by Guyanese architecture and the seemingly laid-back way of life.
"I love the architecture. You know, I went down to the city centre.
I love the architecture of your city. Like these high spires, you know, those high peaks. I re-
tle bit more time."
Addi ng to his appreciation of the Guyanese way of life are little things that Tilo says he has only seen in Guyana. Tilo finds everyday things, such as horse carts, interesting and believes they add authenticity to Guyana. Breaking misconceptions and making connections
Much of Tilo’s travels depend largely on the people he meets in every country, breaking the bounds of language, race, and nationality in
that living and working with them has been one of his more unique and memorable experiences.
"W hat I find interesting is that people here are very nice. Guyana has very open people. Very welcoming. I made a lot of connections here," he shared.
He further added, "I would say Guyanese people are overwhelmingly nice. They are very hospitable. I think in Tiger Bay, someone gifted me an ice cream. You know, they have
across the country.
During his time spent in communities like Tiger Bay and Albouystown, Tilo says that Guyana is not nearly as dangerous as the online community and tourists may think; and with comforting videos interacting with Guyanese vendors and gold miners, he is battling those ideas and showcasing Guyana to the rest of the world in a new and unique light.
As he shared during his interview with Pepperpot Magazine,
know, I visited some of the ‘ghettos’, like spent a night in Tiger Bay, went to Albouystown, and I didn't have any problems."
More than just tourist attractions
One of Tilo’s most interesting adventures in Guyana has been his time spent in the heart of Mahdia, doing something that not even many Guyanese experience—gold mining.
After hitchhiking to Mahdia from just outside of Georgetown,
PATRICK George, well-known as "Fat Man", is a real-life vaquero of the South Pakaraima mountain range, one of a handful that still exists in Karasabai Village, Region N ine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
The 57-year-old told Pepperpot Magazine that he is very passionate about his daily activities, which primarily involve herding cattle. As a cowboy, he is skilled in lassoing and is also gifted in the production of both bull and cow whips, which he makes from scratch using cowhide.
Geor ge spends his time out in the open, in a real primitive setting among his fellow cowboys, tending to cattle and horses. All he talks about is livestock.
He is well-known and well-liked in the community and is also skilled in making tasso (preserved beef using salt).
The cowboy disclosed that he is originally from Moruca, Region On e (Barima-Waini), but relocated to Karasabai, South Pakaraima, in 1950 when his parents moved there as teachers.
As such, he grew up in Karasabai Village,
spent most of his life there, and now lives in a clean, scenic, and peaceful place, surrounded by wide-open spaces.
George, a simple yet knowledgeable man, told Pepperpot Magazine that he had visited Moruca a few times in the past and had many relatives there, but his home is Karasabai Village, a place he is deeply attached to.
“I like living here because I am familiar with the people and the place, and it is so beautiful. Residing in a burnt-brick house at the edge of the mountains is something truly special,” he said.
The best part about living in Karasabai Village is the freedom to do many things, such as f ishing, spear-hunting for meat, and roasting meats and fish over an open fire by the creek.
George mainly travels on horseback or by bicycle, and he is currently training his youngest son, who is 21 years old, to assist him in herding cattle since he is often stricken with chronic pain.
He is a genuine animal lover, especially of horses, a nd has more than 40, most of which are wild and have to
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DID you know that artisanal, small, and medium-scale miners account for the majority of gold production in Guyana? This fact might not be wellknown among many Guyanese, but it's just one of the insights gleaned from the country’s annual Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) report.
As the oil and gas industry emerges as the latest addition to Guyana's extractive sectors, the excitement around it is palpable. With job opportunities on the rise and companies eager to establish their presence, everyday Guyanese are increasingly questioning how this new sector will impact their lives. Central to these concerns is the need for effective monitoring of the industry. Fortunately, our leaders remain vigilant, overseeing every aspect of our natural resources through the EITI framework.
Guyana has embraced the EITI platform to report on its mining, oil and gas, forestry, and fisheries sectors, publishing five EITI reports since becoming an implementing country. The Guyana EITI (GYEITI) is dedicated to enhancing transparency regarding extractive contracts and beneficial ownership and informing policy debates on the oil and gas sector and the management of the country’s sovereign wealth fund. With the most recent EITI report now released, Pepperpot Magazine spoke to Johann Earle, the Public Affairs Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources, attached to the GYEITI Secretariat, about the vital role that every Guyanese plays in the very big picture of our extractive industries.
Simply put, EITI is an international effort to ensure the fair and honest use and distribution of a nation's natural resources. As Earle shared, "EITI is a global initiative that started in 2003 after a conference in London of world leaders. There needed to be a mechanism that would ensure that countries with natural resources have a way to monitor and manage those resources for the benefit of their citizens," he said.
This initiative emerged
from the recognition of a troubling disconnect between a nation's wealth and the poverty experienced by its people. "There was a mismatch. How could a country that is rich have people that are poor? That’s why EITI came about," he shared.
Although Guyana joined EITI in 2017, the groundwork was laid much earlier, with the then-government expressing interest in becoming a member over a decade ago during its oil exploration phase. Earle recounted that,"Guyana officially joined EITI in 2017. However, back in 2010, the government signalled its intent to join because of its oil exploration activities."
Guyana’s EITI membership in 2017 established a model for accountability and reporting across the extractive industries. In keeping with EITI mandates, all extractive industries in Guyana are required to be part of the country’s annual report. "Guyana was required to produce an annual report, which is now open to the public on our website. This latest edition is for 2022," he explained.
He also noted that, "EITI provides a two-year window for report completion. So, for 2022, we have until the end of 2024 for the final report."
EITI reports provide a wealth of data illustrating the contributions of various sectors.
"There are numerous graphs, tables, and charts that depict the contributions of the extractive sectors. You’ll see what gold contributed to in 2022, along with comparisons to the previous year," Earle noted. He further added that, "The information in the report, the numbers and figures, have all been peer-reviewed and double-checked," he stated. This reliability is further reinforced by the role of an independent consultancy firm. Earle explained, "It’s a structured process. First, there’s an independent consultancy firm, which conducts the reviews. It's managed through an open tender process overseen by the Guyana Tender Board," he said.
This independent firm then sets out to gather infor-
Guyana’s EITI report for 2022 is out to the public now and can be accessed via the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI)
mation from companies all across Guyana in the various extractive sectors like gold, forestry, and oil and gas. The meticulous data collection process involves collaboration with various agencies. "They send out information
templates to all government agencies related to all relevant extractive companies. When those companies and government agencies submit their numbers, they are compiled, and then we can reconcile what was paid and what was received," Earle elaborated.
Reconciliation is also a critical aspect of this process. "Reconciliation simply means checking to see what causes any inconsistencies. Yes, it could be corruption, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate wrongdoing," he clarified, reinforcing that not every discrepancy suggests misconduct.
Although Guyana has faced some challenges in keeping up with the man -
By Michel Outridge
A FOOD business that started with $2,000 worth of fish, one packet of leg quarters, and materials that Terrence McInroy got from a neighbour who had dismantled their fowl pen has transitioned into a growing venture that provides permanent employment for eight people.
This business place is Terrence Delight, located at Public Road, Calcutta Village, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, owned and operated by Terrence McInroy, 38, a local of the village who provides good food and a cosy place for weary travellers and others on a daily basis.
McInroy provides permanent employment for eight people on a two-shift
system and utilises 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of chicken a week for wings, fried chicken, barbecue, and jerk chicken. In addition,
Terrence McInroy
he makes his own homemade sauces, which come in different flavours.
“I wanted to give my mother one of the best
birthday gifts, a surprise. I took her to the US Embassy in the city for her to get a visa to travel for a vacation, but she passed
away that same day and never had the chance to use it,” he said.
Thelma McInroy died at 58 years old. She was
a roadside provision vendor for many years, and after she passed away, he took over the stand, selling ground provisions.
“It was after my mother passed away I returned home. I didn’t have the heart to go back to the city for work. I was a manager at various KFC outlets in the city for 15 years, and I had to do something for myself to earn,” he said.
McInroy told Pepperpot Magazine that for one year, he held it down at the roadside ground provision stand, and one day, he took a car and went for a drive, unsure of where he was heading. He asked the driver to stop in front of the Courts Store.
He went inside and saw that they had deep fryers. After making some inqui-
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with a total of 38 students. And we have split them into the morning. It was supposed to be 20 in the morning, 20 in the afternoon. But we have like 40 in the afternoon and 19 in the morning,” she explained. This growth reflects a rising interest in a craft that blends artistry with practical skills.
The programme currently offers both introductory and intermediate classes. In the introduction class, students work with beads, wires, and semi-precious stones to create captivating pieces. Deborah’s students are currently engaged in hands-on projects, crafting items such as the popular square knot ring. “Right now, they're making what we call a square knot ring. And they've done texturing. And then they're going to go into doming,” she explained. As students progress in the introductory class, the curriculum
becomes more advanced, culminating in the intricate art of setting stones, a skill they aim to master by the end of April. “They go right into setting stones by the end of April,” Deborah added.
The students come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their own motivations to the class. “Only two people there had experience in jewellery - a little bit, like the beading and stuff. So everybody else is green. Everybody else is doing this for the first time,” Deborah noted.
Some students pursue jewellery-making as a hobby, while others see it as a viable career
“You have people who are doing it as a hobby… when they retire, they have something to do. And then you have people who are doing it as a job,” she added.
Keishana Jones, a 29-year-old mother, joined the class for a mix of personal and financial reasons. “The
reason for my joining is that I'm having kids and the jewellery-making, it's expensive,” she explained. Determined to create affordable, high-quality pieces for her family, Keishana also hopes to develop and monetise her skills. “Some of the goldsmiths are using your produc ts and mixing it and not giving it to the quality that you deserve,” she said. The class has not only given her something enjoyable to do but also a valuable skill she can use in the future.
Royston Peters, a 57-yearold participant, joined the programme to reconnect with his heritage. Recognising the deep connection between jewellery and mining in African villages, he wanted to b etter understand his roots. “My decision to join the class is interesting because I started off, really, recognising that jewellery and mining is something that traditionally started in African villages,”
he shared. Royston hopes to share his newfound skills with his community, helping younger generations use craftsmanship as a means of earning a livelihood. “If we can maximise the use of those resources, then we can find ways by which our youngsters can seek to create avenues to earn for themselves a livelihood,” he explained.
The programme not only teaches practical skills but also fosters a sense of community. Deon Stanislaus, an assistant lecturer and former student from Monkey Mountain Village, has come a long way since leaving his home in the interior a few years ago. “I came from the interior; I am from Monkey Mountain Village, and I came here when I was 20 years old, just a few years ago,” he recounted. Having started by making jewellery from wood, he now creates gold and silver pieces. “It’s a nice training, and there
are many things to learn,” he added. Deon hopes to open his own business in the future.
Although most of the class consists of newcomers, some skilled professionals also find the initiative valuable. Cassandra Chu, a graduate of the Burrowes School of Art, is currently in the intermediate class, perfecting her work with silver. Since joining the programme, she has gained confidence, combining the teachings of various instructors to refine her skills. “For m e, I've definitely gotten a lot more confidence in the shop,” she shared, expressing her desire to not only create but also teach in the future. Cassandra is particularly drawn to contemporary jewellery design and aims to incorporate fashion elements into her creations. “I'm more l ooking into jewellery for fashion because my work is more contemporary,” she said. As the classes progress,
students are exposed to a combination of traditional techniques and modern design principles, fostering both technical expertise and creative freedom. With free materials provided and a commitment to maintaining equipment, students are encouraged t o take ownership of their learning. “The materials are free. We just ask you to take care of all the equipment,” Deborah shared.
The Guyana Mining School and Training Centre’s jewellery programme is on e of many impactful, people-centred initiatives happening across Guyana. As these aspiring artisans master the intricacies of jewellery-making, they are not just creating beautiful pieces; they are forging paths toward self-sufficiency and community empowerment, embodying the spirit of creativity that defines Guyana.
ries, he left but returned later to buy two deep fryers and three small freezers, which were part of a combo deal being offered.
McInroy had no clear direction on how he was going to pay for them, but he knew he wanted to do more to earn. After a year of taking credit to sell ground provisions at the roadside from 9 am to 10 pm with a flambeau, he wanted to upgrade.
At that time, fate would have it that his neighbour broke up a fowl pen, and he went over, collected all the good wood, and put it aside.
The idea then came to him to build a small shop to sell fish, chips, and chicken, and he had to change a few transformers before he got it right to
save his electrical appliances.
McInroy suffered financially until his fate changed. As a direct result of his kindness and determination, he began by making a few chicken sandwiches and sharing them with neighbours.
They liked them and came back asking for more, telling him to make them to sell, and so his food business started.
A family friend came by, and he told him about his plan to open a shop to sell food. The friend gave him $5,000 to go to the sawmill to buy some damaged wood. When he returned, he needed $10,000 more, which he didn’t have. The cash was loaned to him by a family friend, who then bought and delivered the wood.
The small shop was
constructed, and the business was opened on Old Year’s Day after he asked a friend to buy $2,000 worth of banga, getting 15 fish, which he fried and sold with chips. He also took $3,000 from the ground provision sales to buy a packet of chicken leg quarters.
The villagers came out and supported him after he shared 15 chicken sandwiches with his neighbours, who encouraged him to fry chicken to sell alongside the sandwiches.
On the first day of business, he had everything cooking when the transformer went out, forcing him to return customers’ money. At the time, only he and his niece were cooking.
When he finally got a new transformer, his business was reopened, and customers began asking for fried rice, which he cooked on a fireside.
One day, McInroy saw
a big fancy bus stop, and a lady asked to use the washroom. She then enquired whether he was selling food and bought five chicken sandwiches before leaving. At the time, he didn’t have change, so he told her she could go without paying. That same lady returned later, bought 35 chicken sandwiches, and left a huge tip.
“She came back two days later, saying they enjoyed the sandwiches and wanted to help me; they would label the shop. I couldn’t believe it—tears came to my eyes because I was struggling to establish the business, and so many things were going wrong, so I accepted the gesture of goodwill,” he said.
He later learned she was from Banks DIH, and she offered to help him with branded coolers, a fresh coat of paint, and signage for 'Terrence De-
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light' with their Coca-Cola branding in bright red and white.
From then, things took off for him, and his business flourished with the help of family, friends, neighbours, and even strangers.
“One day, a customer came and said, ‘Bossman, you’re bigger than your shop. I could barely fit in here,’ and I said to myself, I have to do better but didn’t have the resources to do it,” he said.
McInroy told Pepperpot Magazine that having his business today is nothing short of a miracle, and good people helped make it happen.
Today, his food business uses 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of chicken per week, and the wings come in eight different flavours, a best-seller among the breakfast and lunch specials daily.
Due to rising com -
modity prices, he tries to keep his prices affordable while maintaining the same portion sizes. McInroy gives back monthly by provi ding meals to two school classes, lunch for the church every Saturday, and six food hampers to the less fortunate.
He also gives each of his eight staffers a chicken every week and provides bonuses when the business makes a profit.
“No matter what life brings my way, I will always help others because when I was in need, random people showed up to assist me, and because of that kindness, my business thrived,” he said.
His roadside food shop has been refurbished with additional dining accommodation at the rear of the property, which adjoins his residence. The bright red shop is hard to miss, conveniently located along the public road.
McInroy, the youngest of 11 siblings, was born and raised in Calcutta Village, Mahaicony.
Terrence Delight is open from 5:00 am to midnight, closed on Sat-
Terrence McInroy and some of his staffers
urdays, but opens in the evening and operates later on weekends to accommodate late travellers.
“To run a business like this is a lot—it has
many trials and tribulations daily, but I always manage to over come them. Being a staunch Adventist and youth counsellor, I pray constantly for strength and guidance. However, I am thankful for the support from the community and customers that allows me to keep this business open,” he said.
Tilo has been part of a camp on the outskirts of Mahdia. Documenting his experience through a series of TikTok videos, Tilo has become well-versed in traditional Guyanese gold mining.
Although not your average tourist, Tilo believes that Guyana offers more than your typical run-of-the-mill tour experience—that is if you are willing to take the adventure.
"In terms of tourism, well, I'm not your average tourist, but I think there are some
fun things to explore, especially like the interior," he said. He further added, "If you seek adventure, if you want to still see a real place, a place where you have real people, not like people trying to make as much money off of you as possible, I think Guyana is a very, very awesome place to explore."
With the unique red dust and flavours of Mahdia, Tilo describes his experience thus far in Mahdia as similar to that of the Wild West. "Mahdia is like the frontier. This is basical-
ly the modern-day Wild West; I find that here you have gold mining, you have a gold rush, you know. Sometimes, someone hits it big, and everybody's heading there. You have bars everywhere."
Even traversing the interior aboard Guyana’s famous bush trucks has made for an everlasting memory for Tilo. "I mean, just going to Mahdia on the trucks, you know, the roads are like... completely different experience, you know. Pulling people out of their trucks, nearly getting
stuck, having to camp in front of a bridge because, you know, you need to wait for the boat to get you across the next day. Kind of... you know, it's a vibe."
Coming from a small village in the heart of Germany, across Europe and the Atlantic, and now in the Caribbean, Tilo offers a unique perspective on Guyana—a perspective he shares openly and boldly across his social media.
Although breathtaking, Tilo admits there are challenges with his way of travel, and some
are specific to Guyana and the interior where he currently is."The jungle is the jungle, and it is awesome. I have seen wild animals, and the trees and everything. It is just so different here than in places in Europe," he shared. Tilo further added, "Here, it’s a little bit dangerous because we have jaguars and malaria. But it's not as dangerous as people think. So many people are scared of snakes and jaguars."
Currently in Lethem, Tilo plans to spend a bit more time
in Guyana before heading south to places like Argentina and Brazil. "Well, if you want to explore something like a modern-day frontier, come. It's adventurous. It needs to be made for you. It’s not for everybody. But if you like adventure, come to Guyana."
As Tilo continues his journey, he leaves behind a message for fellow travellers: embrace the unexpected and discover the beauty of connection, culture, and the spirit of adventure that Guyana has to offer.
be 'broken in' before they can accommodate a jockey.
The cowboy of Karasabai Village reported that he also had a lot of cattle, but last year, he lost about 21 cows due to an unknown illness that swept through his ranch.
George stated that he has often been a victim of cattle rustling, losing several cows to thieves who move through with his livestock under the
cover of moonlight. Today, he has a small herd of cow s, and at least one cowboy is present at all times to watch over them at his ranch near the Ireng River.
He explained that he sells his beef within the village, as there is no outside market available. However, about 15 years ago, they exported fresh beef from Karasabai to the city via plane outfitted with freezers, and that initiative is be-
ing considered again.
“When I was younger, I used to break in wild horses and castrate big bulls without killing them to ensure rapid weight gain, but these days, I hardly do those things due to persistent pain in my body.”
Sometimes, George would use cowhide to plait bull and cow whips, which are used to lasso cattle while herding.
He pointed out that preparing the cowhide
is a long process, requiring drying, airing in the dew, and precise cutting before it can be plaited into whips for cows and horses.
These days, the cowboy spends one day at his ranch before returning home on horseback, and his beef is made available for sale in the community and at the annual market day exhibition.
“Nowadays, we only have a handful of real-life cowboys (vaque-
ros) in Karasabai, who spend most of their time exposed to the elements tending to cattle, and it is a tradition we have managed to preserve over the years,” he said.
George revealed that most young men have left the village to seek employment in Brazil, including his sons, who return for a few days before leaving again. Many of them are not interested in becoming cowboys.
When he is not herd-
ing cattle and horses, Geor ge takes time to enjoy the things he loves, such as fishing, arrow and bow hunting for wild meat, which he then shares with his neighbours.
The last time he visited the city was in 1984, and he has no real desire to go again, but he would like to return to Moruca to visit relatives, some of whom h e hasn’t seen in years.
PEOPLE living with disabilities have rights just like every other human being. In Guyana, these rights are protected by international human rights declarations as well as local laws and policies. However, despite these protections, access to certain spaces—both
online and physical— remains challenging.
One of the biggest challenges for persons living with disabilities is access to public spaces, such as buildings and parks. Essential facilities, such as disability-friendly restrooms and wheelchair ramps, are often unavailable in
Guyana. Public transportation is another major issue. I can personally recall witnessing a man in a wheelchair struggling to get into a taxi at a car park. Every driver passed him by because accommodating his needs would require assisting him into the car and pack-
ing his wheelchair into the trunk. Most drivers lacked the patience for t his—all except one, whom he finally convinced. This is the daily reality for many persons living with disabilities.
In the digital space, people with disabilities also face barriers to accessing informa -
tion and content. Users with auditory, visual, or cognitive impairments often struggle to navigate online platforms. It is crucial to acknowledge that persons with disabilities deserve the same respect and dignity as anyone else. To d eny them access to essential services or to
overlook their needs is blatant discrimination.
I encourage the relevant authorities, such as the National Commission on Disability, to take charge in advocating for further developments in infrastructure, services, accessibility, healthcare, and policy reform that includes
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persons with disabilities. However, beyond institutional action, the most critical aspect of this issue is raising awareness and educating the Guyanese public about the challenges faced by people living with disabilities.
Imagine being born wit h a disability or developing one over time, only to find that the world is not built for you. How fair is it to expect persons with limited mobility to lead fulfilling lives
while providing them with little to no tools to do so? I have written before about the inaccessibility of certain goods and services in Guyana for people with disabilities, but today, I want to emphasise that awareness alone is not enough. Education and advocacy can only go so far— we need enforcement of existing policies and genuine commitment to making a change.
People with disabilities are protected by
human rights laws that grant them access to employment, housing, healthcare, and safe public spaces, among other rights. However, these rights should not only exist on paper—they should be actively upheld in real life. Moving forward, I hope that we continue to respect and support people living with disabilities while ensuring they have access to the opportunities they deserve.
Advocacy does not
have to be a grand movement—it can begin with small, individual actions. Employers should ensure that their workplaces are accessible, with safe stairways or ramps for employees and customers with disabilities. Business owners should make entrances wheelchair-friendly
and consider offering services in sign language. If you know someone in your community who is struggling without support, you can help them access social services through the Ministry of Human Services.
Community members can also take small but meaningful steps to en-
sure that persons with disabilities have access to necessary goods and services. If each person reading this column takes even one small action to support someone with a disability, our collective efforts will create a more inclusive and accessible Guyana.
COMPLAINING does not make life better. The following is an excerpt from one of my books, “Be Thankful”. You may have many struggles, but be grateful for life itself, as many things are working in your favour. The author makes it his routine to
express gratitude. Each morning, as he awakens to a new day, he is thankful to the Creator, thankful for his health and appreciative of the wonderful people he will encounter. He encourages you to stop complaining and embrace gratitude today as you
read this book, written just for you.
1. You have strength
As you continue reading, you will come to realise that while you may not have everything, there are still many things working in your favour.
According to Fowler and
Fowler (1964), "Strength is being strong, a degree in which [a] person or thing is strong (e.g., strength of body, mind, will, memory, judgment, has the strength to lift a cup, walk upstairs).”
Many people possess strength, though some may not recognise it. Strength
is not limited to physical ability; it extends to various aspects of a person's character and capabilities.
1.1
A person without hands may still have feet, and those feet can take them to many places. In the absence of hands, they may develop
remarkable skills using their feet, performing tasks that others would never attempt with their own.
Similarly, individuals without feet often rely on their hands to accomplish tasks that may seem impossible. Many people prefer
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JONESTOWN is by no means an unusual phenomenon in the context of belief-based tragedies. H owever, its impact raises essential questions about the use of faith and the dangers of the unorthodox surrender of the rational self in pursuit
of a collective goal, especially when such a goal is placed in the hands of a single, persuasive human leader.
Jonestow n exemplifies the power of religious fervour when manipulated to create an isolated society that follows its own rules dictated by one indi -
vidual.
This is not a location that can be designated as a tourist attraction, but it certainly has other potential uses for national and historical reflection. There is speculation that entheogens, “psychoactive botanicals”, were used by the hier-
archy of the cult. It is now widely known that Jim Jones himself was an addict, a common trait among leaders of such groups throughout history. This brings us to the nature of interaction that should be fostered for public understanding and education.
For t hose pursuing careers in social work, whe re engagement with individuals exhibiti ng dangerous behavioural patterns is crucial, Jonestown serves as a case study. Understanding the psychological development of leaders who establish cults can pro-
vide insight into similar figures throughout history
The Heaven’s Gate cult, like The People’s Temple, also pursued an extraordinary mystical objective. In 1997, members of Heaven’s Gate used barbiturates to sedate themselves
TURN TO PAGE XXXIII
"I WAIT fuh you to come back," the young girl said softly, quiet sadness in her eyes as she sat in the dimly lit room. She combed her long, dark hair slowly, watching the steady flame of the candle that illuminated the hopes in her heart. "So I will wait," she said quietly, "because
experienced something kind in her life. The following Saturday, he told her aunt, "You have a real pretty gyal here."
"Yuh want tuh marry she?" her aunt had asked jokingly.
"No, no," Suraj had replied hurriedly, "Nah ready fuh that."
She had been orphaned from a young age after the tragic death of her mother, with no father in the picture.
A dark-brown-skinned, thin little girl, she was unwanted by her family and shuffled from home to home. She grew up without special love or care, treated more like a servant than a child. Though she cried inside, she held onto the belief that one day, life might smile upon her.
The day she met Suraj while working at her aunt’s vegetable stall in the market, she felt a glimmer of joy. He was good-looking and friendly and had complimented her on her sapodilla-brown skin and bright brown eyes.
For the first time, she
The market was quiet during the week, so her aunt kept her at home to do all the household chores. She saw Suraj only once a week on Saturdays, but those moments brought her joy. She was a poor girl, an orphan without a real home or family, so she never had high expectations in life— just hopes.
Sometimes, though, the unexpected happens.
A year after she first met Suraj, he came to her aunt’s house one Sunday and asked to marry her. The proposal stunned her—she could hardly believe something so wonderful was happening to her.
Her wedding day was the most special day of her life. She felt like a princess
TURN TO PAGE XXV
after years of living among the broken pieces of her past. At last, she could smile from the song in her heart.
But the glitz of happiness soon faded. Though Suraj was kind, he spent long hours away from home. He was a businessman, but his electronics store was right there in the market, so she did not understand why he was always gone. At first, she let it go.
Months passed, and loneliness began to weigh on her. He did not include her in his daily life or business, nor did he take her anywhere, making her feel unwanted.
"Why he marry then?" she asked herself silently.
One day, during a visit to her aunt, she learned the shocking truth—Suraj preferred the company of men. He had been living a double life. As his wife, she was merely a front for society, someone to take care of his home and his ageing mother.
The revelation crushed her. She pleaded in silent prayers, "No, dear Lord, doh lemme lose the one good thing I got in life."
Then, in March of the following year, Suraj came home early one evening with unexpected news.
"Ah get through with a visa for America."
She felt no joy at the announcement. A fearful thought crossed her mind.
"Yuh leaving... yuh leaving me?" she asked hesitantly.
"No, no, stupid gyal," he laughed. "Is fuh business, I gon come back."
Her heart felt heavy that day when he left. As he stepped out the door, she told him, "I will light a candle waiting for yuh."
He laughed, gave her a hug, and said, "Stay good."
She stood at the gate, watching until the car turned onto the highway and disappeared from view. She sighed deeply, feeling despondent. Once again, she was alone.
Months passed. He neither called nor sent money regularly. She began to wonder if his business trip had been a lie. Left alone, she now had to take care of his mother without his support.
"Why this happening to me?" she lamented. "Why fate treating me so bad?"
But she knew she couldn’t give up. She had to stay strong, as she had always done. She considered finding a job, but when she spoke to Suraj’s brother about it, his response was sharp.
"So, who will look after Ma?"
"Maybe you can tek her at yuh home during the day."
"No, I don’t have de time."
"Any other brotha or sista can help wid her?"
"No," he answered bluntly, without a trace of care. "Is Suraj responsibility because she willed the house to he, and since you are his wife, she’s you responsibility."
Tina stared at him, disbelieving his lack of concern for his own mother.
Now, she felt trapped— she needed to earn money but could not leave the old woman alone. None of her children were willing to help care for her because they had no stake in the property.
"I lost my motha very young," Tina lamented, "and her love and care, but yet who got theirs cyan care fuh her."
That night, she barely slept, her mind weighed down by worry. By morning, she decided to inspect the small vegetable garden at the side of the house. It had been neglected, but with her experience in wholesale and retail, she saw an opportunity. If she replanted the garden, she could sell the produce in the market without leaving the old woman alone for long hours.
Soon, she was reaping the rewards of her labour, wholesaling her crops early in the morning. The extra money helped, and Mother Laila was grateful.
"You are a good girl," the old woman told her one evening. "Don’t know why mi son couldn’t ah stay."
Tina didn’t know what to say. The old lady continued, "Ah become a burden to m i own children, but God send you to me."
Tears filled the elderly
woman’s eyes, and Tina, overcome with emotion, touched her hand gently.
"I lost my motha at a very young age, so ah happy to do what I can fuh yuh."
Yet, every night, she still lit the candle, hoping and praying that Suraj would return.
Two years passed. One month when the usual money transfer didn’t arrive,
Suraj’s brother came by with an envelope.
"It’s from Suraj," he said.
Tina took the letter, her heart pounding. That night, after lighting her candle, she opened it.
Suraj thanked her for being a good wife, for her hard work, and for taking care of his mother. But he was sorry to say he would
not be coming back. He had found someone else to share his life with, and she was free to move on.
Enclosed was a photograph of him and the one he had chosen—another man.
The letter and photo slipped from her hands onto the floor. She sat there, numb. She couldn’t even cry. The ache in her heart was too deep.
"Two years I wait for you," she whispered, "two years I light a candle, waiting. Why you do this to me? Yuh didn’t really love me. Yuh used me, just like everybody else."
She picked up the photo, held it over the flame, and let it burn. As the ashes fell to the floor, she blew out the candle.
To be continued…
MANY Caribbean intellectuals, with a feeling of resignation, have often commented that the Caribbean has never contributed anything to the world; that instead, it has received whatever culture it has—its food, clothing, and technology—from the Old World of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
However, this characterisation is not entirely accurate, as the Caribbean was the "inventor" and producer of rum, a drink that has spread across the world, much like whisky, the drink of Scotland, whi ch is highly sought after and valued.
Rum is a by-product of cane sugar, the commodity for which the European Caribbean colonies were originally established.
Rum has a history and mythology dating back to the 16th Century. In its earlier forms, it was an extremely potent alcohol, known as "Kill Devil", and became the drink of pirates from Western European nations, mainly Holland, France, and the British Isles.
The exploits and robberies of these pirates were celebrated in poems and novels, and the pirate song "Fifteen men on the dead man's chest, Yo! Ho! Ho! and a bottle of rum" was well known in the 18th Century. It was only in the 19th Century, when Western European nations developed well-equipped navies, that pirates were eliminated, and the seas became safe for legitimate trade and commerce. However, the mythology they created around rum has lingered, especially in the Caribbean islands.
From the 16th Century onwards, the uses of rum expanded; it came to be used in cooking, medic-
inally, as a disinfectant, and as a bacteria eliminator in products such as mouthwash. It also became a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails. At the same time, the quality of rum continued to improve, incorporating the techniques of modern science and the ancient methods of wine production.
Today, the rums produced by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) rank among the finest liquors in the world. This is evidenced by the fact that DDL’s rums consistently win gold medals at international rum festivals.
One of the main techniques borrowed from wi ne production is the process of ageing. Rums are aged in oak barrels. In the 19th and early 20th Centuries, rum production in Guyana was almost entirely dominated by Port uguese families who owned "rum shops". These families, familiar with wine production from their homeland in the Mediterranean, applied their knowledge to crafting their own blends of rum. Each ‘rum shop’ developed its own unique blend, and from time to time, certain shops would gain a reputation for producing the most preferred rum. The oldest rum available in those days was aged for five years.
Towards the late 1950s and into the 1960s, Guyana was plagued by grave political discord and economic upheaval, leading to a push for nationalisation. Many members of the Portuguese community, who were largely involved in commerce and industry, felt insecure and emigrated, mostly to Canada. As a result, only
FROM PAGE XXVI
two main rum producers survived—Bookers, which owned most of the sugar industry, and Demerara Distillers, which focused on rum production. D’Aguiar Bros, another significant producer, eventually transformed into Banks DIH, diversifying its operations beyond rum to include beer and biscuits.
Bookers, anticipating imminent nationalisation, ceased investing in its rum company. By the time the State acquired it, the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. This failing entity was entrusted to Dr. Yesu Persaud and his understudy, Komal Ram Samaroo, to manage. At the time, its collapse seemed inevitable. However, through sheer managerial genius, and with almost no capital injection, Yesu Persaud and Komal Samaroo were able to revive the company, transforming it into one of the world’s most successful rum enterprises.
It is important to highlight this history, as it is at risk of being forgotten. Furthermore, it directly relates to the significance of the ageing process in rum production. Aged rums develop a mellowness and distinctive flavour, and Demerara Distillers has been a pioneer in producing aged rums of 12 years and beyond; not just in Guyana and the Caribbean but globally.
The process of ageing rum is expensive. It requires oak barrels, which must be imported since oak grows only in colder climates. Skilled tradesmen known as "coopers" are needed to craft these barrels, ensuring they are of standard size and airtight. In the past, when many households relied on rainwater for dri nking, large wooden vats were commonly used for storage. These vats were made from wallaba staves by vat makers, a widespread profession at the t ime. As modern water
storage systems replaced vats, the trade of coopering disappeared. Today, DDL must train and employ coopers at high wages to sustain this craft.
The oak barrels used for ageing are stored in warehouses, with sections demarcated by year. As each batch of barrels ages, they are moved up t o the next designated section. During the ageing process, some of the rum naturally evaporates; a phenomenon known as the "angel’s share".
Over ten years, a barrel can lose up to 20% of i ts rum. This loss, coupled with the long-term investment required for ageing, contributes to the higher cost of aged rums compared to newly produced ones.
DDL originally had an ageing capacity of 30,000 barrels, but due to rising international demand for aged Demerara rums, the company has expanded its capacity to 130,000 barrels. This expansion required an investment of $730 million to construct an extended warehouse to meet future market needs.
Mr. Komal Samaroo, the Chairman and Managing Director of DDL, aptly described the reasoning behind this new investment:
“As the demand for premium aged rums continues to grow,”, he said, “this new facility ensures we continue to deliver our award-winning rums while upholding the rich heritage and craft that have made Demerara Rums a household name for rum connoisseurs globally. The warehouse represents another milestone in our journey to solidify Guyana's position as a leader in the aged rum industry.”
Through strategic vision and innovation, Demerara Distillers Limited continues to reinforce its leadership in the global rum industry, ensuring that Guyana remains at the forefront of premium rum production.
FROM PAGE XXII
independence and quickly adapt, making the most of their abilities. Strength is not defined by sheer size or physical power—it is about resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Even if you lack certain physical abilities, there is still much you can do for yourself and your loved ones.
1.2 Strength of mind
The mind allows individuals to think critically and make decisions. Some people possess incredible physical strength, lifting weights heavier than their own body mass, yet they may lack mental resilience. History has shown that physical strength alone is not enough—strategic thinking and intelligence often have a greater impact.
For example, those who enslaved others during historical periods were often physically weaker than their captives. However, they used their intellect to develop oppressive systems that kept enslaved people in bondage.
In sports, an athlete may be physically stronger than their coach, but the coach’s role is to use their mind to strategise and guide the athlete to success. Some sports are not won through physical endurance alone but through mental discipline. Marathon runners, for instance, must have the mental strength to pace themselves and stay focused, even when they feel discouraged. A race is not always won by the person who takes the lead at the start—sometimes, those who endure mentally triumph in the end.
In boxing, a fighter may not be able to knock out their opponent in the first round. However, by wearing down their adversary physically and mentally over time, they can eventually secure a victory.
Therefore, even if you do not have great physical strength, you should be thankful for your mental capabilities. Mental strength has helped many people build wealth, lead successful careers, and inspire others. If you have this gift, use it wisely—not to control others, but to uplift and empower them.
1.3 Strength of will
Many people are good at starting things but struggle to see them through to completion. This is where the strength of will becomes crucial. Determination and perseverance he lp individuals navigate
challenges and complete their goals.
Work can be challenging, but quitting at the first sign of difficulty is not the answer. Employees who persevere through tough times may later reap the rewards of promotions or financial stability. Parents, too, often exercise strength of will when raising their children, as parenting requires patience and endurance.
Si milarly, students preparing for exams need willpower to stay focused, even when the material is difficult. Success in examinations, sports, or any major life endeavour often depends on perseverance. Strength of will is what allows individuals to push through difficult moments and emerge victorious.
1.4 Strength of memory
Some people possess extraordinary memory, recalling details others have long for gotten. School friends may remind you of childhood events with surprising accuracy, bringing old memories back to life.
Children, in particular, display remarkable memory when it suits them—especially when reminding parents of promised gifts or outings. However, when given instructions, they may conveniently forget what they were asked to do.
In the workplace, employers appreciate employees who have strong memories, particularly regarding important tasks and procedures. Employees with excellent recall often become indispensable to their organisations, even after reaching retirement age.
S trength is not just about physical power. It is also about mental resilience, perseverance, and intelligence. Whether you possess strength in body, mind, will, or memory, you have something valuable that can contribute to your personal growth and the well-being of others.
Be thankful for the strengths you have, and use them to create a better life for yourself and those around you.
For more information about Geary Reid and his books, visit: Amazon: www.amazon. com/author/gearyreid Website: www.reidnlearn.com
Facebook: ReidnLearn Email: info@reidnlearn.com
FROM PAGE XXIII
before voluntarily departing this world in anticipation of a rendezvous with a UFO.
The t erm "cult" is often ambiguous, steering discussions away from the serious psychological and social influences that such movements can have. Today, the subtle influence of modern subcultures, often reinforced through social trends, persuasive leaders, or even pharmaceuticals, continues to shape societies in ways that are not always immediately recognised. Many young people are exposed to, and sometimes unknowingly consume, substances that alter their perceptions, often in moments of trust among peers.
The People’s Temple tragedy is part of the broader narrative of mass exterminations throughout history. Examining such events
allows for a deeper understanding of the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to them.
The Jonestown site, while not a tourist attraction, should be considered a centre for studying the impact of radical subcultures and religious extremism on society.
History teaches us that movements can begin as seemingly harmless subcultures, but later transform into significant societal threats. The Nazi movement, for example, started as a small, ideological subculture. As Werner Maser details in his book, Hitler, Adolf Hitler himself was heavily dependent on pharmaceutical substances, which may h ave contributed to his extreme actions.
The list of drugs he consumed is documented in Appendix D of the book.
STUDY SUCCESS
Dear Student, Welcome dear reading friend. Please pay close attention to this helpful procedure to figure out the meaning of difficult or unfamiliar words that you do not wish to skip over. You need specific skills for deducing their meaning through context clues. Assess each hint for what it is
worth. This technique of cloze passages often helps the reader to realise how much the context can help in finding the meaning of difficult or unfamiliar words. Be wise.
Love you
THE PASSAGE
A. Comprehension of a passage
Note: At this stage of study comprehension is
understanding whatever you read, which is the goal of reading. It is the thinking process you use for understanding meaning or importance of something. Strong vocabulary, good background knowledge, and an understanding of how language works are the keys to grasping while reading.
Follow your classroom reading comprehen-
March 2, 2025
sion practice that fosters relevant information and techniques, answering multiple-choice questions, and answering the written-response questions: Identifying and restating the keywords in the question.
The healthy practice of mastering various text types pays dividends in your foundational development for higher-level thinking across various subject areas.
Di rections: Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions that follow.
It took me a little time to realise that we were actually in a whirlpool and that the whirlpool was remorselessly carrying us nearer and nearer to its central pit. The din of the rushing water was terrific. I could see the pilot’s lips move as he shouted instructions to the captain, who was trying to coax a last burst of power from the engine. The two members of the crew were draped over the tiller and their faces were whiter than I had ever seen them before. The water was all hell-bent in one direction, as smooth and purposeful as a racing car. Round and round it went, spiralling down gradually toward the black pit in the centre.
The pit looked as if it had no bottom. Another crazy idea flashed through my mind. Our pilot earned his living by salvaging sunken ships. Had he diabolically plotted to sink the “Konpira” so that he could raise her?
Now we were halfway down the slope of the w hirlpool and shooting around at a speed that made one’s head reel. The inside of the bowl was translucent blue-green glass, and one could not help being struck by the beauty of it, as well as the terror. The ship had no tendency to roll over into the pit. It rode at a crazy tilt, its decks lying parallel to the tilted surface of the water. Still, we felt no tendency to slide, the centrifugal force of the revolution perhaps holding us in place…
1. Which of the following pairs of words pic-
The liberty of the individual must be thus far limited; he must not make himself a nuisance to other people.
JOHN STUART MILL (1806-1873) On Liberty (1859), ch. 3
turising the whirlpool and car-racing is suggested by the phrase “as smooth and purposeful as a racing car”?
(A) Beauty and terror (C) Speed and decisiveness (B) Excitement and power (D) Noise and excitement
2. The writer uses the phrase “spiralling down gradually”
(A) explain how the ship was moving (B) describe the movement of the whirlpool
(C) make the comparison with the racing car more vivid
(D) suggest the eventual slowing down of the whirlpool
3. In paragraph 2 the narrator’s thoughts about the pilot’s thoughts about the pilot revealed that he
(A) is doubtful about the pilot’s skill
(B) is perplexed about the work the pilot does
(C) suspects that the pilot might have planned their disaster
(D) disapproves of how the pilot does his job
4. According to the passage, the ship does not “slide” down the side of the pit because the (A) translucent bluegreen pit was shaped like a bowl.
(B) the ship was spinning around so quickly that its deck faced the water (C) force of the rotating water kept the ship away from the centre.
(D) the ship was tilted at a particularly steep and dangerous angle.
5. Which of the following statements does NOT refer to the potential danger of the whirlpool?
(A) “The water was all hell-bent in one direction” (paragraph 1).
(B) “The pit looked as if it had no bottom” (paragraph 2).
(C) “The inside of the
bowl was like translucent blue-green glass” (paragraph 3).
(D) “The ship showed no tendency to roll over into the pit” (paragraph 3).
STORY WRITING
Use the passage above to inspire you to write a short story that captures a moment in time. Many short stories are set in small time periods – an hour or a day.
B. Comprehension of a passage inferring the meaning of the unfamiliar word Directions: Read the following passage and try to guess the meaning of the word ‘uttle’.
Uttle was stopped during the war and only after the war did it become popular. What a difference it has made to our lives. It keeps people at home much more. It has made the remote parts of the world more real to us. Photographs show a country, but only uttle makes us feel that a foreign country is real. Also, we can se e scenes in the street, big occasions are uttled, such as the coronation in 1953 and the Opening of Parliament. Perhaps the sufferers from uttle are the notable people, who, as they step out of an aeroplane, have to face the battery of uttle cameras and know that every moment, every gestur e will be seen by millions of people. Politician not only have to speak well, but they also now have to have what is called ‘uttle personality’. Perhaps we can sympathise when Members of Parliament say they do not want debates to be uttled.
Uttle means: Ο cinema Ο photography
Ο television Ο telephone
THE era of our childhood is filled with the magic and wonder of discovery. Occasionally, within the fabric of our memories or dreams, we may rediscover longlost toys and books that once represented the most exciting part of our days. Some of us may have even preserved these childhood paraphernalia within glass cases in our living rooms or cardboard boxes tucked away in a storage closet. However, the magical sense of joy that often accompanied these items did not come from the things themselves but from within our hearts. It came from the childhood versions of ourselves—filled with wonder and excitement at the prospect of finding a new world within the pages of a book or the colours of a unique toy.
Among these memories, many of us may recall one common item—the Chinese finger trap. The Chinese finger trap is a small cylindrical toy made of interwoven fibres. Historically, it has had various
uses, including restraining captives and serving as a tool in orthopaedic medicine. In recent years, however, it has been more commonly used as a children’s toy or as a prank. In fact, most of us have likely encountered it at some point during our childhood. The most intriguing aspect of the toy is not its colourful appearance or even its unique name but rather the paradoxical manner in which it functions.
The Chinese finger trap works when an individual inserts their fingers into either end of the cylinder. Once inside, their fingers become trapped. Instinctively, the person may try to pull their fingers out, but this only causes the trap to tighten around them. Additionally, the trap is usually made of extremely strong fibres that cannot be broken by sheer force. Thus, the only way to escape is not to pull away but to push one’s fingers further into the trap. This action increases the circumference of the structure, effectively releasing the fingers.
When used as a toy, the paradoxical nature of the trap makes for an amusing prank, especially for those unfamiliar with its mechanics. However, when used as an actual form of restraint, it becomes an inescapable trap that often defeats its victim, utilising the force of their own struggle.
As we progress through life, we are bound to make mistakes and encounter failures along the way. These setbacks, we know, are a natural part of growth. They are a sign that we are alive and attempting to do something new each day. While everyone makes mistakes, especially in their youth, it is the way we respond to our mistakes that determines the direction of our journey.
When confronted with the consequences of failure, our first instinct is often to pull away—to distance ourselves from the situation as much as possible—just like a person caught in a Chinese finger trap. This may help us move on from
failure and transition to the next stage of our lives, but it does not guarantee that we will learn from our mistakes. Pulling away from our errors may help us survive, but it does not ensure that we grow.
Instead, we should lean in, examining our mistakes and failures more
closely. In the moment, this approach may feel uncomfortable or even counterproductive, but it is the only way to ensure that when we emerge from a difficult situation, we do so as better individuals—not just as survivors of failure.
As children, we
found joy in exploring the world and seeking new experiences without fear or discomfort. As we embark on the journey of adulthood, let us continue to dive into the heart of life, embracing our discoveries as opportunities for growth.
