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Yamashita
And, just like that we are turning another page in the calendar.
Except, it was not just like that. The past year has been a roller coaster ride. Not exactly the fun type, though.
But here we are. As we usher in 2024, there is much to contemplate.
From our public schools to power plants to our hospital to fatal car accidents to drug abuse to sexual abuse to manåmko’ abuse to child abuse, we know where we want to get.
At the same time, there is much to be celebrated. Face-to-face Mass is back. Masks are off. Shelves are incredibly stocked. Mail is delivered daily. Gas lines are non-existent. Police cars, fire engines, ambulances are visible. Road reconstruction abounds. Mother Nature has been kind to us. Online service at Revenue & Taxation works!
Island residents check out fresh noble fir Christmas trees being sold by The Home Depot store in Tamuning on Nov. 19, 2023. Different stores’ annual sale of thousands of fresh Christmas trees from the states has become a much-awaited event for those who want to get into the holiday spirit early.
We have fresh Christmas Trees. Restaurants are open and customer service is improving. Visitors are returning. The Red Trolley is back on the road!
Good people help. People are making eye contact and smiling.
Exhibits of our artists are gracing the community, as are performances. Guam teams – from music to sports- are winning. Books are being published by our people.
While some businesses shuttered, others have opened. Trash is picked up. The sun shines as the blue skies are graced with rainbows! The water is turquoise, the air is clean, and our plants burst with vibrant color.
Much has been learned. Change will continue to teach us.
Local artist Gera Datuin takes a stand below a mural she entitled ‘A Young Cruz Woman’ after a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the completion of the artwork in Sinajana on May 2, 2023. The mural was one in a series created around the island that has been commissioned by GTA.
A trash bin is emptied into the rear of a Guam Solid Waste Authority packer truck during collection in a Dededo neighborhood Oct. 26, 2021.
The past year has me hoping that someone will ignite particular services and products.
Like, gluten-free desserts and products. Ryan has become gluten intolerant. Finding gluten-free desserts is impossible. Perhaps, bakeries can create a section just for those who enjoy dessert but only if it lacks the protein found in wheat, barley, rye. While gluten-free pancake mix and pasta can be found, gluten-free beer cannot be.
Like, home visits by medical staff. Remember Marcus Welby, MD? Dr. Welby made home visits with a smile. While we have some services, they are challenging to schedule. Some families need such medical attention daily. Lab on the Go would be great for folks like Eric or mom.
Like, neighborhood chats on the go. Sometimes, we just need a friendly ear. Or someone to share cookies with.
Like, caregiver services that pay caregivers what they deserve. Working around the clock takes compassion and specific skills. These workers are not paid what they deserve.
Like, job coaching services for those who age out of DVR job support service. There are hundreds of people with disabilities who can work and want to work but require a job coach. This work requires a particular set of competencies – like patience, understanding, flexibility, intelligence, strength, sense of humor, determination to succeed. DISID needs to expand its work scope and not be limited to what the federal dollar dictates. Local leadership needs to step up and realize the work force that can be found in these circles. We are reliable, determined, and focused. We just need assistance.
Blessed Christmas! Wishing you mounds of Merry and Joy!
Aline Yamashita, Ph.D., is a teacher, single mother and former senator.
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