Dear Jamaica,

A letter of appreciation to the country that I love. A small country 1,525 miles away in the heart of the Caribbean sea. Your flag is black, green, and gold; which represents the strength and creativity of the people, the natural beauty of the sunlight and the wealth of the country, and hope and agricultural resources.

Your national anthem says it all, “Jamaica, Land we love. Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.” You give the world so much, so why not thank you?

Kingston, Mo-Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Portmore, Mandeville, and Spanish town. Just some of the various villages that this beautiful country has. Thank you for letting people from around the world explore these villages. Thank you to the people, who always everyone with welcome arms, letting us embrace your rich culture in every aspect we can.

From the beautiful beaches with constant waves that crash upon the white sand to the rare exotic fish found in your oceans. Thank you for giving the world resource with rich materials to help us every day in life.

Thank you for giving the world reggae and dance hall music. Bob Marley and the Wailers, Damian Marley, Beanie Man, Chaka Demus & Pliers, Shaggy, Sean Paul, Spice, Shenseea, Sister Mary, and so many more. Thank you for creating unique beats and rhythms for generations to come.

Thank you for sharing with the world the talent of world record-breaking athletes. From Usain Bolt with his speed and his unforgettable “bolting pose” to Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Shericka Jackson killing the competition in style.

Thank you for showing the world unless possibilities of the sport.

And finally, thank you to my family, for teaching me about our heritage and where we come from. Thank you for taking me to this country to learn more and experience.

Jamaica, I’m forever in your debt! 

From a young Jamaican girl,

Maddie Jolley