Written piece
MEDITERRANEAN HEARTBEAT
Marina Lowell
Malta
About this piece
My submission acknowledges Malta's varied and unique qualities. It brings to the fore the various experiences the island passed through leading to its present day characteristics which must be fiercely protected and preserved. Malta's peacekeeping strategies are underlined.
Malta, island of sunlight and sea. Honey-coloured limestone churches and ancient temples glowing in a mellow setting sun. Fragrances of orange blossom, wild fennel, carob and thyme, holding precious promise of the sweetest honey nectar.
At times rough to the touch, Malta's thread reflects centuries of hard-earned footprints forging a history of Knights, sieges, defeats, victories and rebirths. Strategically placed in the very centre of the Mediterranean Sea, the essence of Malta's voice is tri-lingual communication spun in three tongues: Semitic roots, Roman/Latin tones and English straight stitching. We are therefore inclined to say 'Bongu!', 'Merhba!' and 'Welcome!' in one breath.
A merging point between many nations, Malta sits in a position where continents may argue, yet our own village festas invite everyone to the same table fully aware that a shared table, a borrowed word and a simple song sung low so all may join, is the path which our small patch follows to strengthen a golden thread of harmony.
As islanders we know two truths: the sea gives and the sea also takes away in spite of the watchful eye of Horus painted on each fishing boat. Therefore, we build in stone, we speak directly to God, Saints and ancient temple Goddesses. We write historic stories of heroic deeds and brave resilience in the hope that they may be of help to someone, somewhere blessed to get to read them and be reminded that they are not alone.
For inspiration we look outwards towards other nations, forever extending a hand in the spirit of renowned Maltese friendliness while fiercely mindful that our inherent characteristics must be preserved and remain unaltered. We also look inwards to discover how our role within the human family may be best fulfilled for the highest common good.
This is the exemplary spirit of the Commonwealth countries: 56 patches, numerous threads, one quilt, keeping each other safe, warm, connected yet unique, all thriving beneath a cloak of general wellbeing.