Happy Independence Day

Happy Independence Day to everyone. It’s been exactly 42 years that we are now independent. Like most of you, I’m proud of being part of Mauritius (of course I’m not saying Mauritius is a perfect place). Obviously to some people, being a patriot matters while for others, it’s just something that should not have happen. Why?? Because those people feel that they would have lived a better life under the British government. Maybe that is the reason why the British government expelled those chagossian in numbers, took sooo much time to give the Ghurkhas their due right. Sometimes I wonder what might have happen if we were still under the British government. Maybe I would have had family expelled from here, living in countries like Gibraltar and Mauritius would have better been known as a military base.

Maybe we should just have a look at all those facilities that we have here and see if we would have benefited it in other countries, like free health care, education (I think these 2 in itself overshadows everything else). There is room for improvements in health care, but just imagine how helpful it is to those poor people (who can’t afford the cost of clinic). One of my friend pointed out in his status message on facebook – as to how many of those who benefited from free education, health care, state scholarships returned afterwards to serve their country. I hold no grudge against any laureate, but if you wanna work abroad for the rest of your life, then use your own means to finance your studies (and not to waste Mauritian taxpayer’s money).

I remember reading Shahrukh Khan’s interview once where he was asked to define what he feels is a patriot. He replied “Patriotism is when you do your best to succeed in whatever field you are and in that process, helping in your country’s progress. It has nothing to do with holding the flag of your country and singing glorious songs.” I absolutely agree with what he said. Maybe we can motivate ourselves from his quote.

Happy 42nd Independence Day to all my dear fellow Mauritians.