Cook Islands visit leaves great impression

For those of you who live in the Cook Islands, it can be easy to feel the need to spread your wings and see the rest of the world. Well, let me assure you that the islands are unique in the world and something to be appreciated and treasured. Constitution Day gave insights into the patriotic spirit of the people. Easy-going, with a little spice. What impressed me? I did not see people begging for money. I did not see young people wired to their smart phones, but rather they were talking. Sports are appreciated. Sorry about the loss to Tahiti! The honesty of the islanders impressed me. The honesty boxes at fruit stands and other locations are a testimony to this. On Sunday mornings it is uplifting to see all the people in their Sunday best going to church. The choirs fill the air with melody. I was compelled to join in the procession. What concerns me? Please do not become like Hawaii, which in many ways has become exploited. You don’t need high rises reaching to the sky. Keep your soul and your unique spirit. I am not a member of a Green Party. However, in this case I would suggest that there needs to continue initiatives to keep the islands pristine as this is your greatest resource. Finally, do not give your natural resources away to any other country. I know that permission was given to China to fish in your waters. No amount of money can replace your fish stocks once they are depleted. I am from British Columbia, Canada. The Chinese fish with their big drift nets outside of our controlled waters and we can do nothing about it. Our beloved salmon stocks are being depleted. For the sake of your children and your grandchildren, cherish your heritage and your islands. Enjoy the Cook Islands - it is a unique country in this world that has so much trouble and dissention. You are blessed. Betty Lou Pacey, President, BL Lighting, Canada

For those of you who live in the Cook Islands, it can be easy to feel the need to spread your wings and see the rest of the world. Well, let me assure you that the islands are unique in the world and something to be appreciated and treasured. Constitution Day gave insights into the patriotic spirit of the people. Easy-going, with a little spice. What impressed me? I did not see people begging for money. I did not see young people wired to their smart phones, but rather they were talking. Sports are appreciated. Sorry about the loss to Tahiti! The honesty of the islanders impressed me. The honesty boxes at fruit stands and other locations are a testimony to this. On Sunday mornings it is uplifting to see all the people in their Sunday best going to church. The choirs fill the air with melody. I was compelled to join in the procession. What concerns me? Please do not become like Hawaii, which in many ways has become exploited. You don’t need high rises reaching to the sky. Keep your soul and your unique spirit. I am not a member of a Green Party. However, in this case I would suggest that there needs to continue initiatives to keep the islands pristine as this is your greatest resource. Finally, do not give your natural resources away to any other country. I know that permission was given to China to fish in your waters. No amount of money can replace your fish stocks once they are depleted. I am from British Columbia, Canada. The Chinese fish with their big drift nets outside of our controlled waters and we can do nothing about it. Our beloved salmon stocks are being depleted. For the sake of your children and your grandchildren, cherish your heritage and your islands. Enjoy the Cook Islands - it is a unique country in this world that has so much trouble and dissention. You are blessed. Betty Lou Pacey, President, BL Lighting, Canada