My Thoughts on COVID-19 in the BVI in July 2021

I wrote my first blog post about the COVID-19 pandemic in the BVI in March 2020. As I write today, things have definitely changed in our small territory. We have had a significant rise in cases over the past few weeks, and families have lost loved ones.

The government increased its efforts to suppress the spread of this deadly virus through curfew, contact tracing, stay-at-home orders, vaccination, etc. However, many people remain skeptical about vaccines, doctors, and COVID-19. Many have shared articles and videos which discredit the work of our health team. Some share misinformation through airwaves and social media. We also have confusion within religious sects about the true nature of the disease and concerns about taking COVID-19 vaccines.

People are also debating about natural remedies, which I also use. However, I strongly encourage persons to consult with their doctors about bush medicine if they use prescription medication. Bush medicine used incorrectly, such as using too many leaves or boiling instead of steeping, could have an adverse reaction based on your medical condition or medication.

I am an advocate for vaccines because statistics reflect that they reduce hospitalizations and death. However, I am concerned about living costs and the weak national health insurance system and healthcare structure. Many people cannot afford healthcare. The factors I have shared have contributed to a situation where we are losing loved ones, and many others struggle to stay alive.

What is not working?

• sharing pictures of persons' loved ones without confirmation
• arguing about vaccination
• bullying others to believe in your views
• not reading credible information
• not listening to our medical professionals
• not wearing your masks
• discrediting the work of the healthcare professionals
• not sanitizing
• being impatient with dealing with the protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19
• not adhering to curfew
• waiting too long to get help when sick
• being disrespectful to healthcare workers or contact tracers

What is working?

• getting vaccinated
• prayer
• being understanding to families who are worried or grieving
• checking in with family and friends
• respecting the health care team
• proactive lifestyle changes, including exercise
• listening to our medical professionals
• getting advice from your doctor on whether to get vaccinated
• infusing natural remedies after consulting with your doctor

Over these past few days, I have felt broken as I hear about persons who have passed on. I can only imagine what their families are feeling. I have been close to tears several times over the past few days, even though I do not know everyone who passed. Knowing that someone lost a beloved family member is enough to tear at my heart.

I hope that people would wise up and think carefully about their options right now. COVID-19 vaccines are not mandatory. Some people have medical concerns, and I encourage them to speak to their doctors. If someone chooses not to be vaccinated, we must respect their decision. In turn, they must respect vaccinated persons' right to choose as well. Further, we all must adhere to the protocols given by the government.

Employers are making decisions that persons in the community do not support; however, every employer has to safeguard both employees and their customers. As we navigate the parameters of workplaces mandating vaccination, we must first consider the health and safety of every person who enters that establishment. Employers also have to consider how they organize workspaces, limit customer interactions and enable remote capabilities, where possible.

Everyone's focus right now should be prayer, eating well, exercise, enjoying hobbies, and sharing love and encouragement with others. We also must respect each other and be our brothers' keepers.

POEM: Point of Clarity

we often say it's obvious

when others are oblivious
when it's surely conspicuous
Isn't it ridiculous when we miss the point
or maybe I need to ask the Lord to anoint
my head with wisdom
so my cup can overflow
but some will still never know
or even go the extra length
to figure anything out
yet we run our mouths
and spread incorrect information
most often defamation
which ends up in litigation
maybe they just need some libation
and some hibernation
so we don't have to be in consternation
or constipation
instead let us use our inclination
to find the point of clarity

© Linette Rabsatt

Poem: Salty

When I take a certain slant,

take a step back
because the fire is raging
and there are no phases
to predict what I'll do next.
Get ready to get vexed,
get steady because I'm set
to speak and elaborate
and I may not contemplate
who gets touched by the words.
You know words dig like swords
but they only hurt if you are guilty
and it's okay if you don't speak to me
because we've been holding on,
we've been holding back,
we've been accepting slack,
and no longer can keep track
and want to paint everybody black - 
but not anymore.
So if this stings like a crusted sore,
just know that the crust
is a sign of a healing touch,
repair in progress -
function without regret.
So get set and get ready
for the revolution ahead of you.

© Linette Rabsatt

BVI 2021 Qua-Rap-Tine Battle - And the Winner is...

The finals of the 2021 Qua-Rap-Tine Battle debuted live on Facebook on Friday, May 28, 2021. Everyone was highly anticipating the performances from the three finalists, Deh Flippaz, Dink Dawg, and Buggz. Based on the previous rounds, these three rappers showed consistency, smooth flow, devastating punch lines, and tenacity.

Changes to the Battle
In the finals, the organizers made some changes. In the previous rounds, the rappers were able to submit their videos separately. However, for the finals, all the artistes performed in one space. In addition, we saw Reset and Killa Tooma joining PDB, Monéa, and PNDRN as judges.

Performances
Buggz: As usual, Buggz showed his lyrical content and hype energy. This rapper has a distinctive voice that he uses well. He started with, "We run things, things no run we, one winner that's a fact, nobody could first me, so trust me, I get them choke off like I gusty." He closed with, "Cause my lyricsdem too potent, got them bazzidy, is SSG cheerleader and Marley's head chef, coulda never beat me, Buggz Blase be the best."

Dink Dawg: Dink Dawg has a distinctive voice and performance style. He commenced with, "Mop sticks and brooms, clean up District one to the eight, a lot of crying, a lot of hate, but no one to retaliate, just a boat ride away, but crime no sleep so I don't stray." As this rapper got more into the instrumental, he switched flow which improved his performance. He added, "I let off one in your dome, watch the whole thing explode, your boy trained to go, done send home two pappy show, Celeb just let them man know, I done beat two, they send more."

Deh Flippaz: Deh Flippaz remained consistent throughout the competition, and his performance in the final round did not disappoint. This rapper began with, "Who they send for lunch today, Dinky Dawg and Buggz Blase, put them on my plate, I'll eat they food, and I could demonstrate, I don't play with kids...." He added, "Smile it looks like open doors, Buggz, you just another chore, I'm the shark out in the deep, y'all the fishes on the shore."

Unanimous Win
The judges' review of the finals reflected a unanimous decision which I also agreed wholeheartedly. They selected Deh Flippaz, also known as Hancho, as the winner. Congratulations to Deh Flippaz for winning the 2021 Qua-Rap-Tine Battle. He maintained hard-hitting and excellent performances throughout three rounds. He would have also topped the popularity polls because everyone knows his capability. I also want to congratulate Buggz and Dink Dawg, who also performed well throughout the battle. A special shoutout also goes out to all the other competitors who participated.

It takes a lot of gumption to put yourself out there for critique. Sharing your talent can create self-doubt and fear of criticism. However, engage in what you love and put your energy into it. Listen to the criticism as well and work hard to improve and hone your talent.

VI music continues to evolve, and people regionally and internationally are noticing our talents. Let us encourage and support the various genres of our music. Remember, tradition remains, but culture continues to evolve.

Deh Flippaz, I look forward to hearing more music from you. Congratulations, and keep sharing that inspiring and entertaining talent.

Using Small Wins to Achieve Success

I think that everyone measures success differently. Some people have to see a significant difference to acknowledge success. I am one of those persons who appreciate small wins. I have recognized that change takes time; therefore, success starts with small steps which propel transformation. Minor changes include personal habits, institutional policies and procedures, and the way that we approach situations.

I wanted to become more fit. During the BVI's first lockdown, I joined a fitness group on Facebook to keep me motivated. I am proud to say that I exercise every day because I developed a positive habit, and I approached exercise through a new motivating factor. I'm hoping that my enthusiasm encourages someone else.

Today, I also consider my journey in the working world as a series of small successes. While I may not have made a significant impact in any organization, my small contributions have assisted with efficiency and transformation. I always want to know how my work contributes to the overall goals. Using this mindset, I have been able to improve my performance over the years. Some people think that they have to be a manager to influence change and bring success. However, remember success is how each of us perceives it. Aim for small wins, whether monthly or quarterly, and you will see how improvements translate over one year.

When it comes to personal development and what personal success looks like, many of us rely on other people's opinions of success. You need to chart your journey and determine where you want to go and how you want to grow. Be content with who you are and understand that you will not achieve every goal you attempt. We have to balance our aspirations with the reality of our situations. So if you want to be able to buy a home, you need to have funds for the deposit and a decent credit score. If you have not been saving and making wise financial decisions, you will find it harder to achieve that goal.

I want to offer these ideas:

• look at your present situation and consider where you want to see yourself
• ask yourself, 'how do I get to my ideal?"
• compile a list of small wins that can help you get to your goal
• note the stumbling blocks that may arise
• get started with achieving the small wins

Ribbon

BVI 2021 Qua-Rap-Tine Battle - Round 2 Recap

We started the 2021 Qua-rap-tine battle with twelve fierce competitors, ready to spit fire, 'throw wrath,' and showcase their unique rapping styles. After the first battle, we saw six (6) rappers eliminated. On Friday, May 14, 2021, the remaining six battled for their chance to make it to the final round. The organizers challenged the rappers to use "vaccine" in their lyrics. Based on the Round 1 performances, I knew we could not underestimate any of the performers. 

We all expected that this round would have been fierce. We also hoped that each competitor would have taken the judges' comments as constructive criticism to sharpen their performance and wordplay. After watching Round 2, I commend the rappers for honing their craft and for sharing their talents. Again, Masa hosted the event and PDB, PNDRN and Monéa served as judges. Here's the recap!

Pun G vs. Buggz
Buggz is definitely not a stranger to music because we know him for his work in ABM. He has a distinctive voice and performance style that he uses to his advantage. This creative rapper has consistent flow and a catchy rhyming style.
Sample lyrics: "I pack a punch like I Rocky, got the placed locked like some natties, who can stop me, they can't top me."

Pun G is a strong competitor who has a smooth delivery and hard-hitting lyrics. He maintained the same deft performance as he did in Round 1, which was evident in the judges' comments. His performance was sound with his distinctive flow.
Sample lyrics: "I pulling in Round 3 with my transportation, windows down cause I moving with no hesitation, if you want to learn to be a boss, registration."

The judges decided:
PDB - Buggz
Monéa- Pun G
PNDRN - Buggz

Shawndehrapper vs. Dink Dawg
Dink Dawg is an upcoming rapper from Virgin Gorda who recently launched a music video for his single, Crocodile Teeth Remix. Dink Dawg's Round 2 performance was more subdued in the delivery; however, he again came hard with his punch lines and wordplay.
Sample Lyrics: "Sit back, relax and watch your boy take the whole show, claim say you real but you real estupido, you just took a loss now you silent like a scarecrow."

Shawndehrapper was one of the youngest competitors in the 2021 Qua-rap-tine battle. He also recently launched a music video for his Beatbox Remix. Shawndehrapper extended himself in Round 2 by showcasing his versatility and flow. He came stronger and came even harder with his lyrics.
Sample lyrics: "Yes I only 15, but I moving like a big G, Yes I am an amateur but I still hitting the big leagues, you say you from the South Side but I never hear them claim you yet and you using other man chain in your video as a flex."

The judges decided:
PDB - Dink Dawg
Monéa- Shawndehrapper
PNDRN - Dink Dawg

Deh Flippaz vs. Ron-G
I happened to see Deh Flippaz before Round 2, and I commended him for his Round 1 performance. In Round 2, he did not disappoint. He has consistently shown his capabilities and his mastery of lyrical flow.
Sample lyrics: "I could do this off the top, so put respect on my name, this is real life rap, and I'm the beast in the cage, want smoke, take a seat and let me blow you in flames."

Ron G has shown consistency in the way he performs and his ability to switch flow. He has a smooth delivery, performance energy, and an extensive vocabulary.
Sample lyrics: "That whip is mine, these n**** talking out of the rentals, I've been painting vivid pictures with a broken stencil, I've been eating my carrots when I count the cabbage."

The judges decided:
PDB - Deh Flippaz
Monéa- Deh Flippaz
PNDRN - Deh Flippaz

Therefore, the rappers advancing to Round 3 are Deh Flippaz, Dink Dawg, and Buggz. Again, I wish the rappers all the best and look forward to their upcoming performances and future work.

My Thoughts on The Golden Rule

This past week, I chatted with my friend and colleague, Dr. Dierdra Wheatley-Peters, about some of the different challenges that we faced. During the conversation, Dierdra said that life would be better if we abided by the Golden Rule. I smiled and thought it would be something nice to share. Also, I needed something to share with the youth for Youth Sunday, so I felt it would be an appropriate topic.

As I hung laundry one morning, I thought more about the Golden Rule, and I decided to present the topic in threes. I took this approach to keep the presentation concise while giving information that could be useful and relatable. I researched three (3) areas and highlighted three (3) points on applying the Golden Rule in everyday life.

What is the Golden Rule? It simply is that we should treat people the way we want to be treated. Aiming to live by the Golden Rule helps us to become:

1. humble,
2. concerned, and
3. compassionate.

We express our feelings about the Golden Rule in different ways when situations develop. In the Caribbean, we have fables and sayings which depict how we should deal with moral dilemmas. I share these examples of common sayings:

1. Do so, don’t like so
2. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes
3. Don’t give what you can’t take

Three Scriptures
I found scriptures that also promote the Golden Rule concept, which persons who follow Christianity would know. The Bible provides many references to sacrifice, humility, helping others, and sharing, and these should encourage us to be empathetic and considerate. These scriptures embody the Golden Rule:

1. Matthew 7:12 NRSV: In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.
2. Leviticus 19:34 KJV: But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
3. Luke 6:31 NRSV: Do to others as you would have them do to you.

Three Examples
Many times we read scriptures, textbooks, and self-help books and get lost in the vocabulary. Therefore, I wanted to highlight how we can remain embody the Golden Rule in everyday life for thee young people:

1. In the home – don’t leave your dirty dishes behind for someone else to clean
2. In school – if you are doing a group project, pull your weight
3. In the community – don’t litter

I shared this prayer:
Dear God, we thank you for sparing our lives and enabling us to come together as a church family. We ask for your mercies on our young people. Please protect and guide them as they continue to blossom into future leaders in the church and community. Please bless their home circles, their church family, their respective schools, and organizations that they are involved in. Help them to live by the Golden Rule and help us as adults to lead by example as well. This we ask in your name. AMEN