President Dame Sandra Mason used her toast to the nation’s latest centenarian to urge younger Barbadians to engage more with their elders, not only to learn more about history but to develop respect for elders and those in authority.
Commenting on the recent robbery of two elderly women at a bus stop outside the Frank Walcott Building that was captured on bystander video, she said the incident should not be happening in Barbados, adding that she was particularly distraught when she found out the ages of the alleged attackers.
During her visit on Wednesday to centenarian John Burke, also known as John Young, a carpenter born in Drax Hall, St John, Dame Sandra stressed that for young people to respect and appreciate Barbados’ history, they must have opportunities to interact with the older generation.
The president said: “I’m older than both those ladies who were standing at that bus stop and under normal circumstances, that should not be happening. But it’s people like [John] that should have the opportunity to guide the younger generation.”
She suggested that fostering interaction between the younger and older generations could lead to increased respect, not only for themselves but also for their peers and those in authority.
In contrast to the centenarian’s reserved demeanour, friends and family turned the president’s visit into a joyous celebration at his Baird’s Village, St George home.
His children, Thyra Husbands and Robin Burke, shared fond memories of their father’s leadership, wisdom and occasional bossiness.
Robin said his father taught him the importance of respecting others and those in authority while Thyra recounted the long walks she took with her father, during which he shared stories and encouraged her to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.
“My father would always say if you want to get something done, you’re the best person to do it, and because of that, I grew up being very independent and taking responsibility for my life,” Thyra said.
Describing her father as outspoken and well-respected in the community, she said he was always willing to spread his knowledge about carpentry or agriculture.
Thyra shared a story about a neighbour who ventured into agriculture because of his influence.
“There was a lady who used to live in the neighbourhood who told me recently that she would always remember my father because when she first started to get into agriculture, he was the one person who would encourage her and teach her things she didn’t know,” she said.
“He always wanted to help people stay on the right track. If he knew something was not going to work, he never shied away from stating his opinion, whether people liked it or not.”
Reflecting on her father’s life, Thyra said that she was thankful to still have him in her life. She hopes to keep his stories alive because they showcase the real history of Barbados and its people.
(BB)
