I am a frequent reader of this board, however, I have never posted on this board. However, this topic is too good.

What is it about Jamaica that brings out the passion (negative or positive) in people? For the record, I must admit that I am a converted lover of Jamaica. Because of what I have heard from other people, who heard from someone else, I had sworn off Jamaica before I ever got there. Then in 92 a co-worker from Jamaica invited me to his wedding, after running out excuse I decided to go for the weekend. To make a long story short, I was back within 6 months.

Now to this topic, we've got one person (Flyaway) who may have gone to Jamaica a couple of years ago and is still going by that information. He apparently is aware of whats going on in Jamaica, but does not have the full story. Flyaway, you just cant get Jamaica out of your system.

We've got another person (jamflyer) who is a die-hard Jamaican lover who no matter what will never turn is back on "Yawd". I am not sure if jamflyer is Jamaican as some of the more passionate defenders of Jamaica are the "yardies" (i.e. Yanks, Brits, Germans or Canucks who think of Jamaica as home).

Then we've got hnechets, who was like me 6 years ago. Oh Jamaica, I will never go. Why not? becasue a friend of a friend said they witnessed (or heard of)someones else being mistreated in Jamaica. All unconfirmed rumors we heard through a 3rd, 4th, maybe 5th party.

I think all of this is the beauty and the magic of Jamaica. Man it aint perfect, but it sure as hell is ideal.

I will be back in August for Sumfest. If you need to find me, stop by Alfred's in Negril and ask for X. Dem all know mi.

One love, one heart.

Irie.