Christmas message by the Barbados Association of Retired Persons.As we celebrate the birth of the Christ child, we at the Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) extend to our many members and friends in Barbados and the diaspora the wish for a most blessed Christmas and a prosperous and active new year.
Carolling, tuk bands and “tiltmen” in the early morning, the smells emanating from the neighbour’s oven, lunch time family gatherings, these and other customs and practices on Christmas Day are rapidly disappearing as we alter our lifestyles to accommodate new values in our lives.
While 2012 was a year full of challenges for all of us, we should strive to improve all aspects of our life in the new year. It is very clear that as the international recession continues, Barbados will continue to face more challenging times.
This is the time for the wise and humane spirit of BARP, as an organization and as individuals, to play a role in guiding and recommending on some issues.
In the new year BARP intends to embark on new and innovative programmes to enhance the quality of life for our members while strengthening those programmes that were successful in 2012.
In the meantime, as prices continue to skyrocket, we may see the wisdom in growing and eating our own foods. Kitchen gardens, for example, could become more than just a pastime for many of us.
The new year is upon us, let us think on these things.
Our sincere thanks to our over 200 volunteers, who continue to provide excellent service to members. We wish also to express our appreciation to the staff of BARP for their dedication and outstanding work ethic.
May God’s richest blessings attend each and every one of you.
