Happy Eid ul Fitr

[Photo is courtesy Trinidad Newsday 20.9.2009]

The holy month of Ramadan this year coincided with my birthday. Hence the holy month had much significance for me. I decided that at the close of Ramadan that it was necessary for me to ponder about my life, what I had achieved thus far and what were my aspirations. It seemed fitting since the holy month is focused on the need for Muslims to purge themselves, to surrender all vices and become pure. It is the time for great introspection.

T&T FADING WORLD CUP DREAM

Photo courtesy CONCACAF (USA vs T&T)

http://www.trinidadexpress.com/index.pl/article_news?id=161529626

Well folks the Yankees whipped us at home 1 Nil. I am still coming to terms with it. It's our second loss to the Americans during this qualifying round. With two more games left to go to qualify it seems unlikely we may make it to South Africa. I am still optimistic though. I still carry hope in my heart.

Photo courtesy Soca Warriors official site: T&T Supporters celebrate victory over Sweden at Zen Night Club

GO SOCA WARRIORS GO

Tomorrow is the 2010 World Cup Qualifier between Trinidad and Tobago and the USA. We have to beat the United States in a big way if we are to have any chance of qualifying. I went into mourning when Honduras whipped us 4-1 on Saturday. I am not sure how well I would handle a defeat to the United States. The Americans will be playing in Trinidad so we have the home team advantage. I heard an announcer asking the team to give the Yankess a good 'cut tail'. I say oh yeah! Guys go out and do your best and WIN. Go Soca Warriors GO!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BC1mSOY1hmI&feature=related

Members of the Fire Service being inspected.

Independence Day Parade

Women Power! LEFT:Members of the Fire Service’s band strike up “Fire, Fire.” RIGHT: Armed female soldiers march past the saluting base.

(Note Disclaimer:I take no credit for the above pictures, which are courtesy the local press.)

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

On the 31st August 2009, Trinidad and Tobago celebrated 47 years of Independence from Britain. We have come a long way and we continue to develop. The capital, Port of Spain is changing gradually so too are other forms of infrastructure. I travelled last week on one of the new city service buses to get to my office near the Queen's Park Savannah. I was really impressed at the comfort and efficiency (but let's hope we can still get that new rapid rail train promised in the last election!)

In 2020 we hope to join the list of First World Nations. I wonder whether I will live to see that day.