Mounting food prices and the rising cost of living have been topics of concern not only here in Nevis and the Caribbean but seemingly throughout the world. This no doubt has many minds working overtime as solutions are sought to alleviate the critical problems that the majority of us are facing.
It has been rather interesting listening to individuals, agencies and other organizations speaking on this subject. Suggested solutions and various ideas have been touted but no relief is in sight as one hopefully waits with patience. The truth of the matter is that most who talk on the subject have no control and therefore are unable to alleviate the hardships facing our people. The high price of crude oil and its production among other things has caused an increase in virtually everything. Shipping and travel subsequently feel the brunt of the effect and the cost is handed down to us all.
Price control, a topic which has been suggested and debated by some now seems to have gone through the window as they now realize it’s a laughable idea. How could a government implement price control on a product in which they are not directly involved? It also seemed ludicrous that our government promised to lower the cost of living in a bid to get elected in 2006. Now that prices have skyrocketed, how will the voter respond knowing that the campaign promise simply turned into mockery?
It somehow seems ironic that matters our governments has no control over are being addressed while the matter of increased taxes that they do have sole and total control over, are being increased and tagged on to its people on a regular basis.
Meanwhile, our government spending seems out of control. Programs to enlighten the population on the crisis that looms ahead seem nonexistent as we merrily roll into the dangerous future with no adequate warning from those in authority of the perils ahead. The recession that is presently affecting the United States of America will certainly trickle down to the Caribbean and our small population can be seriously affected.
This brings me to the lifestyles we’ve adopted and are presently living. Gone are the days when we tried to save and conserve. Gone are the days when we tried to live within our means. Gone are the days when we sought and bought a used vehicle. Gone are the days when lemonade, ginger beer and mauby were our favorite drinks at home and restaurants. Gone are the days when phones were used as necessities instead of luxuries. Gone are the days when we did our own planting and reaping of agricultural products for home, family and friends consumption. Gone are the days when one felt comfortable passing on used clothing to those we think might be in need. Gone are the days when sharing and caring was natural. Gone are the days when brotherly love and neighborly love were seen from a distance. Gone are the days when the cost of living was acceptable.
Our lifestyles have changes so dramatically in recent times that one wonders if instead of flustering over the rising cost of living of which we have no control, if we should try to adjust a bit in order to offset the strains that such costs have inflicted on us.
I believe the serenity prayer is timely and appropriate for us all at this time.
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference”.
