The continuing journey around the island was enjoyable. As you can see from the first set of pictures, the location of St. Thomas was again, vastly beautiful. We ate lunch at the top of a resort overlooking the bay. The name of the resort escapes me but I spoke on it from the last entry. The voyage up top by the lift that overlooks the Coastal Bay. That was where I tasted the famous “Bushwacker” drink in which I can say with confidence that their island rum was the center of it. It was strong and I am glad I didn’t drive. My stamina was strong for drinking hard liquor but who would want to chance driving eh?
Not me.
The rest of the pictures took this journey to St. Johns Island. St. Johns is an island were businesses, major franchises were non-existent. This island had very few grocery stores, I only counted two and they were half the size of your local CVS or Walgreens. The children on the island go to school on St. Thomas and another thing to note—close to half of the island is owned by the National Park Service of the United States. You will see more of my adventure in another part of this series.
This day, in particular, it was Labor Day and we were the front center of its annual parade. We saw young children participating, performing their routine and doing a marvelous job in my opinion. We saw other inhabits of the island showcasing their own respective enthusiasm. It ended at a local fair where local vendors who sold jewellery, food and other items unique to the island. A car show was present along with the 80s’ R&B playing in the background. Unfortunately, I did not take any photos are shot videos of the car show. I was awaiting our food and the preparation took too long for my liking.
Overall it was very insightful, viewing the residents’ interactions amongst themselves. Several times being called a Yankee due to living on the mainland. I somewhat felt like an outsider but other respects I didn’t. They spoke to me as my brothers and sisters back home do. I saw a majority of the townsfolks, on St. Johns and St. Thomas who looks like me and it felt relaxing that I didn’t have to act differently. I didn’t have to reserve myself among non-black due to the stereotypical notion of a violent black man from the system of white supremacy. I hope this system of racism will be destroyed one day as the old guard are dying off from old age and some would hope from influences.
Any note, I have enjoyed the stay and will venture more into the US Virgin Islands.
KG Bethlehem 