Kerina Hall Blog

God bless Bim on Independence Day   Independence Day   Independence Day   God bless Bim on Independence Day   God bless Bim we hope and pray   This little little island in the middle of the sea   In the middle of the sea   In the Caribbean sea   This little little island in the middle of the sea   It means the world to me . One of our folk songs.  This brings back memories of school days.  We would sing this song every time Independence came around. Indeed, we depend on God’s blessings as a nation.  We can and should never forget Him. Our island has been through its ups and downs, but with His help we have been able to weather the storms – natural and otherwise. Speaking of storms, ‘Hurricane Janet’ in 1955 was one storm which caused major damage.  At that time weather forecasting was not what it is today.  So many were caught off-guard when it arrived. But we managed to survive and rebuild as a nation. And we would survive other ‘storms’ as well.

Conkies – the Bajan delicacy I wait all year for!  O, for a conkie! To the uninitiated, a conkie is a local delicacy we make at Independence. It is a concoction of corn flour, coconut (grated), pumpkin, sweet potato, milk, butter, raisins, sugar, spice, nutmeg… These ingredients are mixed together and portions are placed on a piece of a banana leaf, which is then folded.  They are then steamed in a saucepan over stems of the banana leaves. There is nothing so sweet as a conkie.  As we say in Barbados, “For real!” Just thinking about it makes my taste buds water.  Banana tree here I come!! ©Kerina Hall

The flower you see above is the National Flower of Barbados.  It is called “The Pride of Barbados.” According to Graham Gooding in Wayside Trees and Shrubs of Barbados it was introduced to the island as early as 1657. Our pride has been around for a long time! Pride often has a negative connotation, meaning puffed-up or arrogant. The Bible informs us that pride goes before a fall.  That’s the unhealthy kind of pride – the kind we don’t need in this island of ours. But pride can be positive as well.  It can mean having pleasure in something good and wholesome.  Like pride in one’s country; and this is demonstrated in one’s loyalty to it, and a commitment to be a good citizen. Yes indeed!  Pride can be beautiful! ©Kerina Hall

First Prime Minister Errol Walton  Barrow Sir Grantley Adams          "God’s will was done by  mortal man             b ut he had lit the fire.”                                 The Flame by Kerina Hall Two men who made significant contributions to the development of Barbados are undoubtedly Sir Grantley Adams and Errol Walton Barrow.  The former was the first Premier of Barbados; and the latter, the first Prime Minister and regarded as the “Father of Independence.” Of course they are not the only heroes recognized by our nation.  Eight others are also celebrated on Heroes Day here in Barbados. In the case for Independence from Britain, it was the contention of Mr. Barrow that this nation should no longer “…be found loitering on Colonial Offices' premises after closing time” ( The Life and Times of Errol Barrow by Peter Morgan, p.69).  Hence, the drive toward independence, toward nationhood. But whatever the human element I firm

National Pledge of Barbados I pledge allegiance to my country Barbados and to my flag, To uphold and defend their honour, And by my living to do credit to my nation wherever I go.                                                                                                                                                            ( Author of Pledge, Lester Vaughn) Last post I shared the words of the National Anthem.  Above are the words of our Pledge. These words highlight the fact that we are not merely individuals – doing our own thing, but really are part of a collective.  We are citizens of the country Barbados. As such we are representative of our country and by our actions our country is assessed by others. A sobering though, as we celebrate Independence. God help us to really reflect our pride in a positive manner. ©Kerina Hall

National Anthem of Barbados In plenty and in time of need When this fair land was young Our brave forefathers sowed the seed From which our pride is sprung A pride that makes no wanton boast Of what it has withstood That binds our hearts from coast to coast The pride of nationhood Chorus We loyal sons and daughters all Do hereby make it known These fields and hills beyond recall Are now our very own We write our names on history's page With expectations great Strict guardians of our heritage Firm craftsmen of our fate The Lord has been the people's guide For past three hundred years With him still on the people's side We have no doubts or fears Upward and onward we shall go Inspired, exulting, free And greater will our nation grow In strength and unity Just had to share these words from our National Anthem with you.  It really is a beautiful piece of poetry, and was written by Irving Burgie . What can I say

Hey!  It’s beginning to look a lot like…Independence.  Thought I was going to say Christmas, didn’t you? Independence Day in Barbados is November 30 and the stores are gearing up with a wide selection of Independence paraphernalia.  Lots of blue, yellow and black (colours of the flag) items are on display.  Also, Independence bunting is adorning some buildings in the city . The photo above was taken a few years ago on Independence Day after the annual parade.  My husband and I never miss a parade and we just  couldn't  miss the opportunity to take a photo with the Broken Trident (a symbol of Barbados' independence) in Trafalgar Square, Bridgetown. In advance, Happy Independence Barbados! ©Kerina Hall

No doubt about it. I am a parade person.  So here in Barbados the month of November is special to me because there are two significant celebrations which involve – you guessed it – parades! The first event, Remembrance Day, is annually observed on the second Sunday in November.  The other is Independence Day on November 30. For me the first event is a prelude to the other. On Remembrance Day I am torn between two conflicting emotions.  Yes, I enjoy the parading bands but there is sadness as I remember those who lost their lives in the wars and the severe loss felt by their families. I am very touched as I view my favourite band on parade – the Barbados Legion, those soldiers who served in the wars. For me this is the highlight of the ceremony.  Apart from the wreath-laying ceremony, seeing those old vets march onto and off the parade square makes my day. Yesterday there was one of them, bent slightly, but still determined to march.  The rest of them, des

“I  will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalms 32:8 NLT The best life. Is it really possible to live the best life these days? What with an economy which has “flipped-flopped,” increasing crime, rampant diseases, a world seemingly out of control; an uncertain future? Can we really live the best life? I came across the verse above while doing devotions and thought I would share it with you. I don’t know what challenges you may be facing but I firmly believe that God has your welfare at heart.  He has a vested interest in your life and everything that concerns you. He will give advice and encouragement to you if you only ask. This is a personal promise to you.  Just place your hands in His and He will guide you. I’ve tried it.  It works.  It is working… He’s helping me to live the best life! ©Kerina Hall

“…God is keeping the night-watch for you and for me.”  Jim Reeves I am a fan of Jim Reeves’ Gospel songs.  These were played regularly in our house during my growing-up years. The song above was and still is one of my favourites.  I often imagined God as a sentry on guard scanning the landscape and horizon for any dangers in the dark and dealing with anything which looked threatening. But God does not only keep the night watch but the day watch as well!  In fact, He is on guard 24/7; and 52/12. If you are still alive (and you must be if you’re reading this!) it’s because of God’s round-the-clock sentry duty. You see, your protection is God’s concern.  It is no coincidence; you are alive because of God’s mercy and grace. Also, there is a reason why you are here.  God has His eyes on you.  He has a plan for your life. Your mission – should you accept it – is to discover what it is and do it. While God keeps watch. ©Kerina Hall