The swearing in of our new governor general, Dame Marguerite Pindling (Lady Pindling as she is fondly called), marked the end of a tenure, beginning of a reign, but more importantly the beginning of the end of an era.
Our history and identity
It is often said that an individual that does not know where he or she came from cannot possibly know his or her destination. In other words, we cannot move forward towards a common loftier goal without an appreciation for whence we came. This speaks to our history as well as the struggles, pain, tears and triumph that have made it possible for us to come this far while achieving the current level of success we enjoy as a nation.
The tributes to and speech by Sir Arthur captured a minimal yet important portion of our history and his immense contribution to our beloved country. The blessings of technology, media and the Internet have also enabled us to take a sneak peek into the heart of an elder statesman whose love for his country is undeniable. The records show and the history books will reflect the role this giant of a man played in major milestones accomplished by The Bahamas including Majority Rule and Independence. We salute Sir Arthur as he goes into retirement and commences a well-deserved rest.
Ordinary people on the hill
One of the most fascinating aspects of the speeches delivered last week were the references to and accounts of the upbringing and early years of Sir Arthur and Dame Marguerite. They both have stories that capture the essence of the Bahamian Dream for which they have fought. It is a dream that ensures that a Bahamian is not discounted from progress or success due to their ethnic background, race, social status, gender, religion or political affiliation. A vision of a better life for all Bahamians that are willing to make sacrifices and pursue success.
The story of Sir Arthur's early days on the remote island of Inagua in a family with limited resources and his ascension to Government House gives renewed hope to young Bahamians. How could we forget the story of the barefoot girl from Andros, Dame Marguerite? Recounting her voyage to and arrival in Nassau, she often references with genuine innocence her amazement with the Nassau of several decades ago. The origins of these two great Bahamians did not however discount or disqualify them from getting to the zenith of political power in our country. This alone is reason for this new generation to believe and our leaders to emulate their predecessors by ensuring that opportunities are not monopolized by a select few among us.
Authors of the lions' and lionesses' exploits
Prime Minister Perry Christie has highlighted on numerous occasions the importance of recording our history. Quoting one of his favorite African proverbs, he often notes that until lions have authors, the story of the hunt when told will favor and compliment the hunter. In essence, the story of hunting expeditions will often miss the other side of what transpired from the perspective of the lions and lionesses if no one takes the time to document the same.
Christie has been an advocate for the writing of biographies and autobiographies for the new generation and generations yet unborn to appreciate not just their history but in order to enrich our country with the knowledge and wisdom of our national treasures. As a student of history and nationalist, this writer keeps a library of the writings and thoughts of our great sons and daughters. However, it is often apparent from the memoirs of a lot of our past and present leaders that some of their stories and reflections have not been captured in these documents. This reality means that we have missed and will miss a lot of the important chapters of our nations' history unless the lions and lionesses begin to put pen to paper or entertain interviews to document the missing chapters in our history books.
Passing the baton
And so this piece concludes where it started, the beginning of a tenure which ironically signals the beginning of the end of an era. The prime minister described Dame Marguerite as the last of the freedom fighters. This comment forces us to face the fact that an era is passing away with warriors of that generation exiting the forefront and limelight to retirement and their eternal rest. There is no doubt that they leave behind a rich heritage and legacy due to their commitment to humanity and the Bahamian people.
Our new GG has promised to serve all Bahamians without prejudice or discrimination. This is what we have come to expect from all our distinguished GGs over the years and there is no reason why Dame Marguerite cannot serve without partiality, partisanship or bias. It is encouraging to also see the Free National Movement recognizing its role as Her Majesty's Official Loyal Opposition, congratulating the new GG following her pledge and expressing commitment to seek to unite a divided electorate. We must now move on as a nation and support the GG in the execution of her constitutional duties.
The sacrifices of our founding fathers and mothers, the struggles for equality and fight of the Suffragettes must not be forgotten as the sun sets on the remainder of the generation that made a difference. The new generation must take up the mantle as this is the only way we can properly honor the legacy of our ancestors. We must read their stories and learn from their experiences to build a better Bahamas. More importantly, we must emulate their selflessness and fortitude in the quest to make our nation the best it can be. In doing so, the burning desire to succeed must be driven by deep rooted convictions in equity, equality, impartiality, patriotism and the fear of the God that has brought us this far as a country.
o Arinthia S. Komolafe is an attorney-at-law. Comments on this article can be directed to a.s.komolafe510@gmail.com.

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