A Prince or a Construction Worker?

Today we were in the Nevis of St. Kitts & Nevis. It was the first country of ten on this trip for #Mission2EveryCountry

I found out that these “countries” in the Caribbean with a name of something and something are basically two islands who come together to form a country. Being on one of the islands would be fine of course, as you do not need to go to every city in a country in order to count it to have been there. Still, I would have felt it missing in case of islands. Anyway, we'll be making our way to St. Kitts as well on the next leg.

After finding out the post office and sending a postcard, we walked around. We ended up on a nice long beach and enjoyed the beautiful weather and the sea. The thought of the winter and cold back at home made me appreciate it much more.

On our way back, there was a commotion at the port. They didn't let us pass. The way was blocked; there was a ceremony. Boys in local dress were dancing to the sound of a rhytmic music. As it was hot and crowded, we sat at a bench with Lara while Carlo went to get himself a beer. He came back with news. “Prince Harry is coming. That's what the fuss is about.”

Upon hearing the news, we naturally got up and went over to have a look. People were lined up, all trying to get a photo of the prince or to shake his hand. Thinking he might help me with my project, Carlo told me to go over and give him my business card. I didn't feel like doing it. He wouldn't have cared anyway. Even if I managed to give it to him, he would have tossed it aside at the first opportunity. Even if he had bothered to have a look at my website, he would have disregarded it fast.

Yes, celebrities are good to reach audiences and crowds. The presence of Angelina Jolie and Jude Law makes a difference for the cause of Peace One Day started by Jeremy Gilley. But does it really work? Even if it does, how much does it work? Refugees may get attention because Jolie is special envoy for UNHCR, still... the attention is so very low. Personal gossip takes over the cause. Somehow, and that's the crucial thing because I don't know if there is a how, we need greater moral outrage. Somehow, -and that's the crucial thing because I don't know if there is a how,- we need greater moral outrage, we need to plant the seed of self-sustaining awareness. Sure, celebrities have some power to drag masses to take action, usually raising money, but real change happens when normal people feel a connection with those suffering and start doing something out of their own. We need en masse action.

Anyway... While walking back from the beach on my own, I came across a construction worker plastering a window. As our eyes met, he smiled and raised his hand to salute. I smiled back and did the same. That, to me, meant much more than a handshake with a prince. I wish we could all connect so easily with a smile. I wish we could care more about ordinary people's daily troubles rather than occupying ourselves with the gossips of celebrity.