DESPITE the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of 26-year old Botham Shem Jean, a Dallas-based Saint Lucian whose funeral is scheduled for Monday next week, we should take heart. The Jean family and the country by extension, should be inspired by this young man’s story. A son of the soil who, by several accounts, had a strong impact on those around him, and who we could regard as a success. Not just at his studies which started here in Saint Lucia, and which led to further success after leaving for university; successful interactions with others at church, in his wider community, and at work with PwC an accounting firm which boasts of ‘helping reach your true potential’.
What Botham Jean accomplished in 26 years is remarkable, and represents the sort of progress that we should wish for all our people, wherever they live. Unfortunately for Botham, 26 years represented a lifetime, but for those of us who may live to see another day, we can learn and be inspired. At the very least, it offers a pattern that could be adopted to achieve similar success.
Good practice in computer programming makes use of special programming patterns to avoid several categories of problems arising. In a like manner, the good examples in the life of Botham Jean provide opportunities for motivation and encouragement. May we all achieve similar success, where others speaking about us can refer to our joyful spirit, friendship, and positive impact.
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About the Author
Dr. Lyndell St. Ville is an ICT Consultant based in Saint Lucia. His expertise includes systems analysis, design, and capacity building.