This nation is a family in which everyone is important, we all have a special role to play. The well-being of this national family, as with individual families, is dependent on every member. It is for this reason, that I encourage every Saint Lucian to reflect on the components of the theme of our celebration purpose, confidence and pride. Sense of purpose We must nurture a sense of national purpose. While our Constitution guarantees every St. Lucian full claim on their civic rights, it is expected that everyone will strive to fulfil their various responsibilities.
Rights have no meaning if there is no shared responsibility.
We all ought to think often of the kind of St. Lucia we want. We ought to join with others in our communities, to create a society in which respect, kindness, moral standards, accountability, and other such virtues are highly valued. Self-centredness that cares nothing for others, and an obsessive materialism that crushes spiritual sensibilities, will shape a criminal, lawless and unkind society. Our shared purpose must be one that will lead to a strong nation, marked by admirable qualities. The essence of Confidence From the granting of adult suffrage through the achievement of Independence on to the end of this closing century, St. Lucia has made significant progress.