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RE: Reflecting on my recent visit to Jamaica

in Reflections2 years ago

Yes, the music. The old reggae is lovely and mellow, but the dancehall music is all explicit sex acts with a melodious sound and rhythmic beat.
While living in the Philippines, I'd go to the local Gaisano mall, and upon entering, I would hear some dancehall songs blasting on the radio, explicit ones that are banned from airplay in Jamaica. I would watch the staff rocking to the beat, and then I'd hear an interruption in the music for the mass "Mother Mary..." I would burst out laughing...

Yes, my relationship with Jamaica is complex. I remember exploring the island and thinking to myself, my god! This is the most beautiful place ever. I want to travel the world but never leave Jamaica." Then within a few years of living there, I became realistic, as the fears of leaving my house increased.

I lived in "survival mode" when I was in Jamaica. That's why I'm alive. I don't want to revert to being a "savage" - hardened by my environment.

It pains me to know that my parents will live their final years in a country in that state.