More Than Enough

by Ashley Jones (United States of America)

I didn't expect to find Jamaica

As the aircraft landed I was awarded an incomparable welcome. Everyone aboard began to put their hands together with such gladness. The many hand claps and shouts of joy echoed down the aisle and rocked my soul. Anticipation of what I would behold on the island of Jamaica thrilled me. One thing I knew for sure was that the people of this island appreciated life and wasn’t ashamed to show it. This realization immediately put the brightest glow on my face and a smile that stretched wide across it. I was ready as ever to slow down and switch over to island time. Once I received an update of my sister’s itinerary, I had the chance to do just that. We had 4 hours to burn and not a worry in sight. I was surrounded by lush green palm trees and the bluest water I’d ever seen. I could finally hear myself think. The ruckus of the city I’d grown so accustom to vanished from my subconscious. It seemed as if the clear sky without a skyscraper in view was all I’ve ever known. I didn’t question it, but basked in this new found glory. The sun appeared much bigger on the island, and shined brighter too. The sunrays reflecting off of the ocean glistened like a sea of diamonds. Jamaica was much more stunning than I’d hoped for. Without first unwinding at our lodging I found myself submerged in the warmth of the Caribbean Sea. I was fully clothed just as I arrived at Montego Bay Airport. I wasn’t going to let the opportunity pass by. That carefree child still lived inside me. Some natives began to gather with my group. They met us baring gifts, a sleeve of disposable cups and the biggest bottle of Ray and Nephews Rum. We laughed and exchanged stories until the sky went from bright turquoise to a tie-dyed cotton candy dream. There was an old man with copper toned skin selling Jerked Chicken out of a handmade hut near the beach. After swimming and laughing until our bellies hurt, a fine meal was all I could think about. We broke bread with friends new and old. The seasoning was the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. I could taste the brown sugar, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. I was content leaving the beach. As the last flight of the evening descended into the airport we made our way back to receive my sister. Our group was now complete, so we set off to St. Anne’s. With over an hour commute ahead of us, some decided to nap, while I gazed out of the window soaking in all the beauty of the island. We arrived at our home and were welcomed by the satin black sky. Being beat from our eventful first day on the island we choose our quarters and settled into bed. The new day unveiled just what majesty we were surrounded by. The circular house sat in the middle of a tropical garden. Rose bushes, hibiscus, and orchids filled the property. The Ground Keepers made a beautiful banquet to set the table. We went to the market to get ingredients for the perfect Caribbean Dinner. The unpaved roads made a cloud of dust as we journeyed through the marketplace. Equipped with water bottles and sunhats we continued on. The aroma of fresh ground spices filled the air. We picked fresh coconuts for traditional rice and peas, Red Snapper, and curry by the pound. My senses were on fire! Being passionate about Culinary Arts was only part of it. Learning through experience put me in sheer bliss. The fine people of Jamaica had taught me something unforgettable. They were not all rich with monetary possessions. They were blessed with far more than money could buy. An outlook on life that caused me to reconsider what I had once measured problems. Everywhere I went I was met with smiles and kind words. They were grateful for the strength to provide for their families. I didn’t expect to find a new appreciation for the little things. An attitude of gratitude shifted my very being. I felt my life changing with that fresh perspective.