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Celebrating Dyslexia Awareness Day: Breaking Stigmas and Embracing Strengths
Today marks World Dyslexia Day, a crucial time to recognize the 10% of the population affected by dyslexia. While often misunderstood, dyslexia is a learning difference that, with proper support, allows individuals to excel in unique ways.
Dyslexia primarily impacts reading and writing, but it goes far beyond that. It’s about how the brain processes information. Many dyslexic individuals struggle with processing and remembering what they see and hear, making learning challenging. This condition can also affect coordination, math skills, time management, organization, and memory.
The condition doesn’t just impact children in school—it extends into adulthood, influencing careers and daily life. No two experiences of dyslexia are alike. Its severity can range from mild to profound, and it often runs in families. While dyslexia is a lifelong condition, many who live with it also demonstrate exceptional talents, particularly in creative and visual fields. Reasoning skills and problem-solving abilities are often areas where people with dyslexia shine.
It’s important to note that dyslexia is increasingly seen not as a limitation but as a different way of thinking. In fact, LinkedIn now offers “dyslexic thinking” as a skill option, highlighting the value of diverse cognitive approaches. This addition comes alongside the recognition of the term in online dictionaries, signaling a shift in how society views the condition.
Each individual with dyslexia has their own strengths and challenges, which is why raising awareness is so crucial. Dyslexia Awareness Day is about more than education; it’s about changing perceptions. Here’s why this week matters:
- Raising Awareness: Increasing public understanding can help dispel myths and reduce the stigma that often surrounds dyslexia.
- Empowering Individuals: Recognizing dyslexia allows people to embrace their unique strengths and seek the support they need to succeed.
- Education: Teachers, parents, and communities gain better tools to support dyslexic students and family members, leading to improved learning environments.
- Advocacy: The week brings attention to the need for better services, resources, and policies to support individuals with dyslexia.
- Support Networks: Celebrating dyslexia helps build communities that provide encouragement and shared experiences for those affected.
By celebrating Dyslexia Awareness Day, we take a step toward a more inclusive and understanding world—one where those who think differently can thrive.
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, died on Sunday at the age of 88, bringing an end to a historic papacy defined by humility, social advocacy, and efforts to modernise the Church. The Vatican confirmed his death late Sunday evening in a brief statement, noting he passed away peacefully at the Apostolic Palace, surrounded by senior clergy and aides.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His elevation as the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Global South signalled a shift in the Church’s global focus. His leadership inspired millions, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, where his messages of compassion, environmental stewardship, and economic justice found deep resonance.
Over his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis worked tirelessly to address some of the most complex issues facing the modern Church—sexual abuse scandals, declining attendance, and widening political divides. He was both praised and criticised for his efforts to reach across ideological lines, calling for greater inclusion within the Church, particularly towards the LGBTQ community, divorced Catholics, and interfaith dialogue.
In the Caribbean, a region with a deep Catholic heritage, Pope Francis was seen as a moral voice and a beacon of reform. His 2015 visit to Cuba helped pave the way for a historic thaw in US–Cuba relations, while his outspoken stance on climate change galvanised support for environmental movements across island nations vulnerable to rising sea levels and intensifying hurricanes.
“Pope Francis was a man of the people. His commitment to the poor, the marginalised, and our common home touched the lives of many here in the Caribbean,” said Bishop Harold Richards of the Antilles Episcopal Conference. “He brought a human face to the Church.”
Though increasingly frail in recent years, Francis continued to carry out his duties with determination. He remained active in Vatican affairs until only weeks before his passing, delivering his final public message on Easter Sunday, in which he called for peace in the Middle East and solidarity with migrants worldwide.
A conclave of cardinals will be convened in the coming weeks to elect a new pope. In the meantime, the College of Cardinals will oversee the governance of the Church.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of bold compassion, spiritual leadership, and a vision of a more open, engaged, and globally conscious Catholic Church. Across the Caribbean and the world, churches will toll their bells in mourning—and in gratitude for a life of service.
Funeral services are expected to be held later this week in St Peter’s Basilica. A national day of mourning has been declared in Argentina.
As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.
A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.
Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.
“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”
This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.
The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.
Pope Francis Dies at 88: World Mourns Transformative Leader of the Catholic Church
Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support
Graceful Steel by Min. Dr. Arliene T. Penn accompanied by Bro. Jacob Edwards
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