What’s de Word with Nicki

Nicki Philbert
Nicki Philbert

5 Things we need to change as a society in order to grow:

Dominica is such a unique place that it’s no mystery that it is the focus of my writing. There seems to be no end to the pretty metaphors and figures of speech that I could use to describe her rugged beauty and spiritual charm. For most of us, the environment of this island has intoxicated us. Addicted, we are forced to give in to her influence and we remain here, enjoying free life in paradise. If it were only for the terrain and natural wonder, this island would be as close to perfect life as it can possibly get. But you see, the land is stable and it cannot bring forth cultural change for it is simply mounds of earth, streams of water and wildlife. In order to grow as a nation, human resource is necessary and it is from this balance of natural environment and human influence, that culture is born. It is safe to say then, that the people are responsible for defining Dominican culture and inciting growth. It is by our human resource that growth will come.

I find myself thinking about modern culture in Dominica and how we choose to live our daily life. And day by day, it becomes more apparent to me that we are at a critical point in our growth. The change brought on by technology over the past 10 years is paramount and
Dominica was not left behind. The current generation is now born into what is being called ‘the technological era;’ A time where the computer and internet have become new culture and have redefined communication and the human being. With this in mind, Dominican society is suffering a much needed but slow change. We are creeping away from the culture of our grandparents and very slowly, the title of ‘Dominican’ is being redefined. The introduction of a generation which strives on virtual connection poses a tremendous opportunity for growth and change. Our generation now has the onus, as ‘internet children’ to modernise the thought process and culture of this island and propel it in a completely different direction. We are the ones who can impact change. This is a tricky situation, however, as it requires both individual and holistic effort. In order to grow as a nation, there a few culturally embedded bad habits that we must change. Yes, we, generation Y, must use our advantage of being open to the world through technology to redefine culture and human nature in Dominica. Why wait on th next generation? Anyway, while I pondered such need for cultural development, I came up with 5 things which I believe have hindered us as a nation for much too long. In order for us to make that shift and transform life in Dominica, these are some bad habits that the upcoming generation must kick out and avoid at all costs:

1. The concept of time

Ever heard the saying ‘Time is money?’ or how about ‘Time waits for no man?’ Well apparently these sayings are irrelevant in Dominican society. Over the years it has become the norm to have no realistic understanding of the concept of time in this country. Events and people are usually late. And by late, I mean a whole hour or more after the set time and this is portrayed as being ‘cool.’ This has become a usual thing in our dear country and it is about time that it changes. You see, this issue goes deep. Not only are we usually late, and have been
brainwashed into thinking that it’s ok to be, but we have been taught to waste time. No one is ever in a real rush. Everyone seems to be laid back, causing us to spin much slower than other parts of the world. Documents seem to remain on desks for years, messages take months to
arrive, decisions take forever and months turn into years. This distorted concept of time seeps through almost every system: government, business, schools, hospitals – all over. People seem to have very little regard for what others have to do with their time and it seems to be that time waits on every man in Dominica. Unfortunately, this concept has been embedded in our thought over generations or perceived from what is the norm in general society and is doing no good for our nation. We have come to a point where it is necessary to adopt a new concept of time; one where things are done in a timely manner and the utter waste of time and sloth-like movement is completely eradicated from our psyche.

2. Minding each other’s business

Writing this one already has me shaking my head. As a society it is rather strange that people can know so much about others by having very little contact or relation to that person whatsoever. So I’ve arrived at the belief that this is a super power native to Dominica. Everyone
is a super hero in ‘pounding beff’ and it has become our culture to talk about people. We make it our duty to be on top of the latest story and to know every single detail about random people. Yet, we have the slightest clue of things that really matter. I pray that the day will come
when our generation realises how senseless and unnecessary this act is and we can levitate our conversations. I know that it cannot be eliminated from society, but I am hoping that at least we see how unimportant this is compared to the greater design of life. I hope that one day we realise that this does nothing but entangle us in a useless web of words, confused stories and false perceptions, destroying character and limiting growth.

3. The fear to be unique

It is my opinion that there is a set definition in people’s minds as to what a Dominican should be. It is this picture that restrains our personal identities. It restricts us from daring to be different. We seem to believe that everyone must live this fictional patterned life and be happy about it. But how will things change if we all want to remain the same? It is time that we brush away the stereotypes that bound us in unchangeable thought. We must embrace the different in order to grow as a nation. As individuals, we must opt to be something else, other than the everyday expectations of our selves. Dominica is in need of innovation now and this will not come if we are all scared to be different and come up with new ideas and understandings of life.

4. A misunderstanding of and lack of appreciation for Art:

One of the very few things that I dislike about this country is the lack of a vibrant art industry. I’m all about the Arts and it is unfortunate that in order to fuel the crave, I must search far and wide for artistic and innovative entertainment. Many artists find it difficult to run successful art business and argue that our society is neither of the quantity nor quality for such endeavours. But what is a country with no Art? As early as primary school, I have seen art pushed to the back seat. This is usually due to the lack of professionals to teach it effectively and also the lack of appreciation for art as an integral part of education and society. Our concept of local art is as limited as it is stagnant and is due for change. Over the past few years a daring few have introduced new avenues into our society. All respect to them. Now in the words of our Prime Minister, let’s take it to the next level.

5. Our concept of politics:

I’m going to keep this one simple so as to spark as little debate as necessary. Our concept of politics as a nation is shamefully misconstrued and is due for revaluation. As a nation we are more concerned with the politician and party than we are in actual politics and issues. We are prone to accept propaganda and encourage senseless banter. Journalism is ruthlessly inaccurate at most times, and the culture of ‘maypwe’ (name calling) has become our chosen method of debate. It is time for the politicians to set a better example, so as to incite a different concept of politics in our youth. And if they don’t, it is time for us, as the more educated generation to demand certain things from our leaders. It is time to change how we perceive politics. Not as a sewo, not a competition of looks, not a popularity contest (though it
technically is) but as a science; One which is clearly defined and understood by both the leaders and the people. One where worthy issues such as our health care system, economic growth, education, art and culture, are intelligently discussed, in settings absent of alcohol and music and other distractions. (Yes I’m referring to conventions)

Hakunamatata

Nicki

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16 Comments

  1. Janet4Rosa
    October 6, 2014

    Amazing piece. The best so far. If each person reading this article adhere to these 5 simple points and encourage others to do the same, perhaps we will see some growth.

  2. Jungle
    October 6, 2014

    Yes this is great commentary Nicki! A pall of gloom hangs over Dominica these days. It’s caused largely by politics, but is rooted in economics I think. WE ALL should use this philosophy as a guideline toward a brighter future.

  3. Zanndoli
    October 6, 2014

    Very good, Nicki, Many Dominicans will be fueled by your ideas. This is the start of something good.

  4. shadrach burton
    October 6, 2014

    I love this article !! words well written, solid points made , keep up the good work Nicki !!

  5. impartial
    October 5, 2014

    This is a great commentary. I hope that we can build on these hindrances. Well written but there must be a cogent path led by the politicians to attain these longing desires.

  6. Anonymous
    October 5, 2014

    I always marvel in great astonishment at the way we see the United States of America in comparison to our small island state. Most of us are so bent on negativity that we have never or we have refused to look at the positive aspect of things to change our ways or to grow our thoughts. I love the idea of pursuing the challenge of having a university graduate in every household. This pursuit and consciousness from people like Nicki will one day generate a really free and prosperous society. I hope it happens sooner, rather than later.

  7. Sylv
    October 5, 2014

    Great piece, hope those who need to take heed do so:-)

  8. Pittsburgh Dominican
    October 4, 2014

    hard part is getting societal by-in on these excellent recommendations for improvement.

  9. Ms Twitter
    October 4, 2014

    Nicki, this is my favorite of all the articles you have written so far. Your thought process was clear and point. I agree with every point you made, particularly about Time and Politics.

    Keep them coming my dear. More people are reading your articles than you realize.

  10. October 4, 2014

    Well said young lady. Keep at it and do not be afraid to be daring, different and better. May your efforts at the analysis of what ails us as a nation, and your proposed solutions thereto, be absorbed by those far and near. In that fashion you can make a lasting and beneficial contribution to the onward march of our civilization. We need thinkers and those who can birth a more creative society on Dominica. Join with the like minded. Indeed, let your light shine and continue to illuminate. God bless!

  11. Lapo Layza
    October 4, 2014

    Beautifully written piece. I know you have much more to bring to the forefront. I will tell you straight out you will not get too many comments on this piece because it’s not political. Yes my fellow citizens we have clocks and still we have not learned to appreciate the value of time. keep up the good work my friend. God bless see you next time.

  12. October 4, 2014

    My Nicki !
    Good one . Am coming home to you with a burning love inside. Save me some coconut water the one you’ve been drinking from lol!

    • Ms Twitter
      October 4, 2014

      Nicki, this is my favorite of all the articles you have written so far. Your thought process was clear and point. I agree with every point you made, particularly about Time and Politics.

      Keep them coming my dear. More people are reading your articles than you realize.

    • Kubuli Kountry
      October 4, 2014

      Can anyone say “stalker”?

  13. van
    October 4, 2014

    I agree totally, especially with number 5. Well written

  14. # Dominican.#
    October 4, 2014

    OH! Amen! Amen! I like it! I like it a lot. You re so right on Q”. not much can be said, Lovely, precise thoughts reflective of who you are and so readily able to articulate your thoughts. Keep hope alive and single handed try your best to educate all of us. Thanks very much. And do us a favor please share your thoughts especially during our Independence Celebrations to educate the masses to cherish Dominica, promote Dominica, Love Dominica , be proud to be From Dominican. And please admonish those who always see it fit to beg, beg, and beg, even those who earn a decent living begging. Teach them to respect them self and be who God created them to be. We have persons who around this time just waiting for old friends residing out of Dominica to return home and they run them crazy by begging the #### out of them. My printed “T” Shirt”. Reads; I AM DOMINICAN, AND PROUD! DONT ASK ME FOR ####IT!!! THANKS FOR KEEPING IT REAL..

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