Dear Editor,
There is a wonderful new group of people gathered at points along the information superhighway. I do not think that that this group has an equivalent for sustained interest from a distance by natives anywhere else – at least not in the Caribbean. It is time to recognize this group and the world of Guyanese bloggers.
It is fascinating to watch as these bloggers belly up daily to their favorite watering hole –Stabroek News. Discussions range from affairs of state to youthful suicides to matters that are elusive to a few. This galaxy of interested Guyanese ranges from the intelligent to the clueless. Sandwiched in between is another intriguing crowd of vociferous patriots. They include government and opposition diehards; comfortably assimilated resident aliens; those drawn to a good gaff; and the occasional representative from the lunatic fringe. Some are courtly, others irascible, and a few comedic. At times, it seems as if there are those, who having discovered a keyboard, now see themselves as the reincarnation of Thelonious Monk. Regardless, it is an enchanting exercise to observe the exchanges of transported natives, as they wax and wane from the erudite to the ridiculous. Then, there is this business involving emblems.
Most of the group bears identifying flagpoles of residency. It is heartening that they care enough to expend the time, energy, and courage to expound on things Guyanese from afar. In one way or another, they furnish indicia of their continued attachment and love for the motherland. They can only be commended – all of them.
Given that they have taken the time to read, to write, and to discuss local issues, I would venture that they are well established in their new locales. Accordingly, I would be bold enough to encourage them to start thinking (if they have not already done so) of returning to their roots. They can support the status quos, or influence change, as part of a growing body of returnees.
I offer this exhortation because I believe that the balance of power has shifted from the West, and will accelerate in the intermediate future. I envision an increasingly austere existence for migrants. Therefore, I see Guyanese, weighing their options, and returning in droves in the next several years. To be sure, there are legitimate concerns surrounding security, standards, and politics. However, the antidote of 200 to 1 can go a far way in making lots of things possible.
In other words, I am urging all of these blogging Guyanese to put their footprints where their hearts and minds are embedded, as so clearly manifested through their cyberspace contributions and fulminations. Come home to Georgetown (and Essequibo and Berbice) where you belong, where you are a first class citizen. Repeat: where you are a first class citizen. As an aside, does anyone think that the government would pay for this commercial?
In the meantime, keep bellying up to the SN bar, and let us hear the throb of your minds and the songs in your souls.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall
