The Tribune

By Angela Palacious

At this time of the year, we think of harvest and all the good things provided by a good and gracious God. What brings you a harvest of happiness? Let us consider our personal happiness, though our answers may vary:

1. Memorable family moments, usually accompanied by food, laughter and lively conversation

2. Good times with close friends who are trustworthy, supportive, honest and prayerful

3. A satisfying job that is meaningful and fulfilling on most days

4. Peace with the past and bright hopes for the future being realized one day at a time

5. Freedom to pursue hobbies and interests, creating pleasurable balance to life

6. The joy of the Lord as our strength, providing a firm foundation even during tragedy

We are a blessed people, and have been chosen to share the beauty of God's creation with the rest of the world. There are many ways in which we can do this and so I share but a few thoughts that God has given me on the subject of harvesting national happiness:

1. Offering a place of prayerful retreat in a frantic and noisy world. The silence on our Family Islands should be marketed for what it is:

i. Quiet nature trails with opportunities to hike or stroll

ii. Star gazing in the natural darkness undisturbed by too much light

iii. Garden plots to cultivate, reaping what others have sowed and planting what others will reap

iv. Camping locations to truly return to basic living with minimal amenities

1. An island getaway for musicians to practice, compose and repose. Religious tourism would focus on choirs and soloists, bands while providing a central local for worship and prayer.

2. Seminars and workshop spaces aimed at bringing small groups and a conference facility to accommodate large groups would attract others to another island

3. Another island could be outfitted to cater to disabled persons enabling them to enjoy the outdoors and new cultural experiences.

4. As we plan to develop nationally, let us consider how to balance the personal happiness of individual with that of others internationally. This is such an exciting time of opportunity for us to consider new approaches to agriculture, maritime pursuits, sustainable energy projects and so much more.

As our children prepare for the future, what are some of the emerging careers and which will become obsolete? How do we prepare them for what seems to be a totally unpredictable future or is it possible to determine trends?

This is a time to ponder what we have to share from our history and culture. What are some of the life lessons that we have learnt from our ancestors. What does our racial and social diversity teach us about global living? What are some of the unique features associated with being Bahamian?

We need the Lord to give us wisdom, knowledge, insight and understanding to plot our course toward national prosperity. What are the sacrifices that we may be called to make as individuals in order to promote the common good?

May the Lord bless us, guide and protect us. May we harvest a life lived to honour of God.