Sylvia Wynter's Dream

Javeir Henry | Prompt #7

At times, it’s better to let go of certain experiences. Why? Simply because it becomes a wearisome task to bear the weight of traumas on our shoulders. Carrying such burdens tends to grow tiresome over time, evolving into a cumbersome load that we would be better off without.

F-OR MANY YEARS

O-UR PEOPLE

R- E P R E S S

G- R I E V O U S

E- N D U R I N G

T- R A U M A

Carrying an abundance of trauma is undoubtedly challenging, and, as the saying suggests, “sometimes holding on does more harm than good.” Hence, occasionally choosing to forget can usher in a renewal, making space for new experiences and the creation of more pleasant memories.

Oftentimes breaking free from constraints of the past allows us to embrace new initiatives and welcome new opportunities.

While retaining memories aids in preserving our identities, there are instances where forgetting contributes to healing. This act allows us to mend the shattered pieces, fostering a process of proper healing and facilitating our transformation into improved versions of ourselves as we embark on a fresh start.

Sometimes we have to eliminate old, rusty-brown leaves that cling to our gardens, and replace them with vibrant hues of fresh new flowers.

This will ultimately create a visual symphony of colours and textures reflecting the bright future that awaits. It is in this orchestrated renewal that the garden transforms into a visually stunning sanctuary, where each petal and leaf contributes to a sensory masterpiece, inviting growth and beauty to flourish in every corner.

While it’s crucial to acknowledge and cherish one’s past and cultural roots, there are instances when embarking on a new journey involves crafting a freshly unique narrative.

Embracing a blank canvas allows you to paint with the vibrant colours that resonate with your vision, not conforming to the expectations of others. It’s a tale of transformation—turning a once ominous canvas into a vibrant portrayal, breathing life into a beautiful narrative, liberated from the haunting chains of trauma.

By relinquishing our old traditions and culture, there’s an opportunity to forge a new cultural identity—one that remains vibrant as the new generation actively engages, avoiding the stagnation caused by a lack of generational shift. Embracing this cultural evolution, we can adapt to a fresh system of change, striving to sustain its vitality and novelty while fortifying our national identity.

Sometimes what we need is a fresh start to spread our wings and make way for new growth in our lives. We need to design a blank state and create our own unique and unforgettable story—— a story that can change the world. Always remember… tragic endings might lead to beautiful beginnings.