Much more of the Guyanese ethnic mix in this year’s Mash celebrations

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,

After all, the heavens stayed its hands; and the much predicted continuation of the early week’s heavy deluge did not occur on the night prior to Mash.

Then came February 23 (Mash Day), the sun shone in all its tropical glory and Guyanese were allowed to celebrate what has been described as the biggest Mash observance to date, with a jump-up that exhibited colour and spirit with the noted GT wine!

What a huge city fete it became, especially as nightfall descended, with Vlissengen Road and Homestretch

Avenue, the two points of high voltage jump-up. “Party din wan dun,” as would be said in the traditional Guyanese lingo.

Well, faith did indeed work miracles, as word had it that the Church’s insistence carried the case for February 23.

But, whereas the latter instance was one of positivity and blessed assurance, there were those voices from the regular quarters that would have wished for this fete day in the nation’s calendar not to take place. Obviously, they must have been greatly disappointed when they awoke early on February 23, only to find the sun rising majestically in the eastern skies. But they were a minority, obviously dissipating slowly, but surly.

It was so wonderful to observe much more of the Guyanese ethnic mix in this year’s celebrations; not only in the costume bands parade, but also evident in the thousands who thronged the routes in family groupings, picnicking on the grass verges and wherever possible, and even as solitary spectators.

This was indeed a true manifestation of what Mash is all about: celebration after work, and with all participating. Even the critics cannot deny this display of the national spirit on show.

It is fervently hoped that this growing national togetherness can be nurtured sustainably for the good and betterment of all.

Sincerely,

Donald Jackson

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