Garlands Primary hosts Boys’ Day

Pastor Aldain Mowatt (right) from the Seventh Day Adventist Church addressing the students.

“Empowering youths’ for the future” was the theme under which boys’ day was celebrated on the grounds of the Garlands Primary and Junior High School, last Thursday, January 19, 2011.

Among those who addressed the boys were Pastors Alva Stevens and Aldain Mowatt, Darnley Gibson and President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Glendon Harris.

Pastor Stevens from the Church of God in his engaging presentation, spoke about empowerment and values. He said, “You should firstly consider education as an important value in life. Value your ambition and start assuming your future roles from now.” 

While giving a demonstration wherein he damped, tore and crushed a hundred dollar bill, he explained that in life, youths, especially young men, will have such days. Despite that, he said, “When people will want to tear you apart, similarly you just have to believe that you can be who you want to be.”

He went on to encourage literacy by saying, “You must love to read.” In his conclusive statements Pastor Stevens added, “Young men, change not for the worst, but change for the better.”

Pastor Mowatt, who heads a circuit of Seventh Day Adventist Churches in South St. James, based his presentation on what he described as a pyramid of employment. He told them, “I know that boys can make a change in life,” and he too reiterated the significance of education. 

“The only way to reach the peak of the pyramid of employment is through education,” he said. He further emphasized the power of the mind, saying, “It is a powerful organ in the body, so you must use it.”

Darnley Gibson,  a teacher at the Maldon High School, related a testimonial of his life and how he achieved success, even from a humble beginning. He indicated to the male listeners in particular, that they must have a goal. 

AIM HIGH 

He said, “Even though men compared to women sometimes are slow starters, boys and young men, you still have to aim high and persist because your parents are looking forward to seeing achievements from you.”

Glendon Harris  reminded the boys that they “have a golden opportunity” and they should “strive to be decent and honest.” 

He ruled out poverty as a detractor, as he described it as only a state of mind. “If you can conceive it, then you achieve it,” he said. 

Special mention was made of several outstanding males at the function, namely Sean Robinson for outstanding attendance, Dario Fendly for academics, Aman Spence for sports and Amaal Myles for behaviour. 

Principal Merna Hart, along with the staff of the institution, expressed gratitude for the speakers and the involvement of everyone who made the event a success. 

Hart is hopeful that next year will be just as successful.