Longevity is a multitude of moments

And completion takes time it’s never one task or one outcome.it is a sequence a chain of events, so keep on keeping on.Longevity is a multitude of moments Unknown

Today I am scheduled to speak at Nia Valley at a symposium for the Merikin Foundation. Looking forward to the gig, it's a growing organisation and dedicated to preserving the history of the free slaves

The story behind the arrival of the Merikins in Trinidad goes back to the American War of Independence, 1775 – 1783 when runaway slaves were first encouraged to join the British fighting forces. A major enticement for their enlistment was the promise of freedom by Lord Dunmore, the then Colonial Governor of Virginia. At the end of the war these ex-soldiers were granted their freedom and taken to Nova Scotia in Canada, Sierra Leone, Jamaica and the Bahamas.
During the War of 1812-1814, known by some historians as “The War of Faulty Communication”, the British made similar promises of freedom to slaves who joined their naval or military forces. These black soldiers were told that at the end of the war they would remain free men and earn 16 acres of land per head of family.
Historians document that these black soldiers/marines were runaway slaves of the American slave owners who made up the British army and that they were recruited into a total of six (6) military companies. They were recruited mainly from Chesapeake Bay, shores of Virginia and Maryland, as well as from the coast of Georgia.

So unbeknown to me, I am a descendant of the Merikins! Who knew??? So today holds a special place in my heart, invited to their symposium and getting the opportunity to spread my gospel of self love!

Here goes.....
Peace!

( thank you to the National Library of Trinidad and Tobago for the data)