The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I am sure that you would agree with me that in the world today, and has been for an extended period of time, the English language seems to be the premier international language of choice spoken, read, and written by a variety of peoples.

I will not delve into the reasons for this global development, but the fact remains that that is now the case (November 30, 2013).
My question to you, though, is how can the world (inclusive of The Bahamas) capitalise on this evolution.

Can you imagine the speed of progress this world would be capable of accomplishing if everyone at least spoke English? Not to mention read and write?Your and my finite minds (and others) together would not be able to fathom the plethora of opportunities that would be available to all global citizens if such a situation were to be presented to the world.

However, for fear of omitting several significant prospective developments that probably would take place because of this, I will refrain from enlightening you on only what I am able to think of. The Bahamian people as well as the people of the world have (I suspect) very healthy imaginations individually, and more importantly, collectively, to visualise whatever creations that could be realised.

And so, it would seem to me that, considering this proposal, the government of The Bahamas should take the initiative and devise its own comprehensive and sophisticated plan to cause the world to rally around and implement this concept.

It is my personal estimation that such an ambitious undertaking by the world (being led by The Bahamas) would take no less than 500 years to accomplish. But, before the 500th year is reached, The Bahamas would, no doubt, be showcased to the world from year one and increasing intermittently over the following years.
I need not point out to Bahamians the inordinate amount of attendant benefits that The Bahamas could derive from leading the way in presenting this platform to the world. I wish, again, that they would use their collective imaginations.

And, finally, it would be my wish that after the 500 years would have been completed that the native languages of countries other than English-speaking countries would still have retained use as significantly and prominently as they are in use today. They (languages) should remain an integral part of their respective cultures. Prime Minister the Rt Hon Perry G Christie and the remaining members of his government should give serious consideration to this proposition. It can only benefit this world and this country for the next 500 years. Who can argue with that?


MARVIN G 
LIGHTBOURN
Nassau,
November 30, 2013.