Alain Jeannot
11 February 2008
column
Port Louis — Having passed their HSC, a thousand of students or so are planning to go abroad for further studies. Some have already decided they will not come back thereafter. It would be most uncalled for to blame their choice. What needs to be done though, is to analyse their motives and those of many who dream of greener pastures on the other side of the ocean.
Yet, most Mauritian expatriates come to their little paradise as often as possible. Its unmatched natural beauty might be a determining motive. Not only does Mauritius count gorgeous beaches, but its climate enables us to enjoy them all year round.
Unfortunately we sometimes fail to appreciate their true value. I live at a 15-minute drive from the west coast but rarely take the opportunity of their fulfilling pleasures. During a recent holiday, my wife and I decided to spend some time at Flic en Flac. The water was nice and warm, a gift of nature, which is quite rare in other pastures where many locals believe the grass to be greener.
After a good swim, we strolled along the beach up to Wolmar. At some point, we came across structures known as gabions. These galvanised iron baskets filled with rocks are used to control coastal erosion. Unfortunately, some wires are broken and concealed in the sand, they represent a danger for walkers or joggers. Moreover the plastic, rags and rubbish entangled into the mesh wires were a regrettable eyesore, which should call for more responsible disposal and waste management.
A bit further, a group of tourists were enjoying a good tan under our sun and the prying eyes of some peeping Toms sheltered under filao trees. Those dubious characters, whose only activity is to stare at the least flesh under their sight or watch out to steal people's property are quite common on our beaches. Their behaviour is embarrassing and disturbing. Police bike patrols would have been a strong deterrent.
When we came back to the car, the shoreline was quite crowded. Some men had unpacked their baskets filled with gajacks and alcoholic drinks, under which influence their tone had turned merry but so unwary of others. The monotonous carillon of an ice cream seller's van had replaced the soothing melody of waves lapping the sand and of the wind playing in filao trees. Should it be allowed to pollute an environment conducive to relaxation, peace and tranquillity?
Before going home we had lunch in a restaurant where the food was nice but the service so dreadful that it left a bitter taste in both our mouths and purse. The waiters seemed to have left their smiles at home, were speechless and unmindful of our presence. They neither dared bid us bon appetit nor apologise for a mistake on our bill. And did not care to know if we had liked the food or if we wanted something else outside our initial order. We hope they are an exception to our legendary hospitality, but it seems that care and courtesy are losing ground in our world.
Yet, we cannot afford neglecting these traits which have made our reputation. This experience shows that we may be blessed with the best attributes of nature, but these must be showered with respect, responsibility and courtesy. Otherwise, they might end up in the sea of vulgarity and carelessness that have made the misfortune of many countries.
Before looking for greener grounds where we might never belong to, why not water our own pastures with love and care instead of condoning a deplorable laissez-faire? Therefore shall we not favour and, perhaps, subtly enforce a more aggressive sense of patriotism through more commitment to our country and fellow citizens? This might encourage Mauritians in believing in their country and the quality of life it can offer, thus preventing an unnecessary brain drain.
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