Dear Editor,
I believe that the time has come for us as residents of St. Maarten to ask ourselves, “Where do I stand?” I say this because as we continue to write the next chapter in the St. Maarten story, we will each be confronted with two choices – either to be part of the solution or part of the hindrance to progress. That day may be years away, but when your child or children, grandchildren ask, “Where were you when it all happened?” or “Where did you stand back then?” can you look them in the eyes and comfortably say, “I stood for St. Maarten!”
In a democracy, there are times when we may individually disagree, but opportunities such as these are the ones that should strengthen our bond.
And when the history books are written, I pray it shows a United St. Maarten with its people boasting proudly, “I stood for St. Maarten.”
We must show the strength and character that allows us to uphold human decency and the fundamental rights of our people. Doing this includes protecting them against whatever we see going wrong, or goes too far. Why do we continue to wait until it affects us personally? Remember, it could happen in your family.
Today, I again extend my sincerest wishes of strength to the family and friends of MP Theo Heyliger. Over the past days the sadness has increased over the detention of one of our country’s greatest leaders. And though it may seem dark now, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as we look towards a brighter day.
Minister Stuart Johnson
