Dear Editor,
I am a senior citizen, having passed my three scores and ten with a little brawta. But it gives me no comfort when we, the older ones, refuse to be role models for our successors, but rather hold on to the thread of power.
This country, like others, has endured the tyranny of 'longevity of tenure' by some political leaders and public officials not knowing when to quit.
The irony is almost indefensible. Some young, vibrant, honest, and dedicated youngsters have leadership qualities yet are often not allowed to prove themselves. This as a result of the unholy marriage between the selfish older leaders and young pretenders who often succumb to the whims of their seniors.
I am not pointing a finger at the former public defender only, but I will admit it is the motivating force to continue the already heated discussion.
Frankly, I was extremely impressed with the credible report of the acting public defender with his high level of professionalism. This is the third time, in recent years, I have felt so happy and proud for a young Jamaican.
This augurs well for the future. The youngsters must be encouraged to be a motivating force to others and not let the elders, whose expiry dates have long gone, to suppress, malign, and spew venom or them.
As senior citizens our duty is to mentor, educate, and guide our juniors, not berate them when their level of performance far supersedes ours.
Wishing everyone a healthy, happy, and satisfying 2015.
Tony Miles
tonymiles1940@gmail.com
Groom the young for leadership, don't berate them
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I am a senior citizen, having passed my three scores and ten with a little brawta. But it gives me no comfort when we, the older ones, refuse to be role models for our successors, but rather hold on to the thread of power.
This country, like others, has endured the tyranny of 'longevity of tenure' by some political leaders and public officials not knowing when to quit.
The irony is almost indefensible. Some young, vibrant, honest, and dedicated youngsters have leadership qualities yet are often not allowed to prove themselves. This as a result of the unholy marriage between the selfish older leaders and young pretenders who often succumb to the whims of their seniors.
I am not pointing a finger at the former public defender only, but I will admit it is the motivating force to continue the already heated discussion.
Frankly, I was extremely impressed with the credible report of the acting public defender with his high level of professionalism. This is the third time, in recent years, I have felt so happy and proud for a young Jamaican.
This augurs well for the future. The youngsters must be encouraged to be a motivating force to others and not let the elders, whose expiry dates have long gone, to suppress, malign, and spew venom or them.
As senior citizens our duty is to mentor, educate, and guide our juniors, not berate them when their level of performance far supersedes ours.
Wishing everyone a healthy, happy, and satisfying 2015.
Tony Miles
tonymiles1940@gmail.com
Groom the young for leadership, don't berate them
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