Governor General, Sir Rodney Williams, has suggested what he calls ‘a few
principles’ by which he is urging nationals to follow as they stand at the beginning
of a new year.
Speaking at the National Service of Thanksgiving at the St. John’s Pentecostal
Church on Sunday, Sir Rodney said these principles can guide citizens and
residents through the coming twelve months and beyond as they navigate some of
the challenges and opportunities that will confront them.
“The first of these is embracing, nurturing and maintaining a positive mindset and
outlook. In the face of the inevitable challenges that 2024 will bring, an optimistic
outlook will determine whether or not the challenges overwhelm us as well as the
extent to which we live our lives according to God’s will and the Biblical truths
and God’s commandments that have withstood the test of time,” he explained.
Secondly, the Governor General is making a clarion call for all to be productive in
whatever they do. “Productivity is not merely measured by busy-ness. The
question is, “Are we, in our various roles and endeavours, genuinely giving our
best?” Let us be mindful not to be busy like bees without making honey. Instead,
let us focus on the quality of our efforts, ensuring that we are effective and
efficient in what we do so that our endeavours bear meaningful fruit,” he added.
Thirdly, the Head of State is extolling the virtues of a ‘can do’ spirit. “In a world
marked by fast-paced technological changes and challenging circumstances, the
importance of initiative and a ‘can do’ attitude cannot be overstated. Let us be
proactive in adapting to change and let us seize the opportunities that arise,
drawing on the positive mindset and outlook that I spoke of earlier. Too often we
are reactive, and in doing so, we lose our sense of urgency and self-determination,
and we end up missing opportunities rather than seizing them,” he stated.
Sir Rodney also wants the people of Antigua and Barbuda to make the best use of
time. “Time is a most precious commodity. A new year highlights how quickly
time passes, how quickly our children grow up and things change. So, the fourth
principle is prudence, being prudent with the use of our time, talent, and resources.
Let us be wise stewards, making thoughtful choices that contribute to the well-
being of our families, our communities, and our nation,” he remarked.
