'In a sane society, one can be right yet wrong, and by the same logic, one can be wrong yet right.'

On March 29, 2026, in one of my rare moments, I penned: 'In a sane society, one can be right yet wrong, and by the same logic, one can be wrong yet right.' - Grace Mad-A. By March 30, 2026, at about 1:00 a.m., I began hemming and hawing over whether I should write a blog about the newly penned statement. Some minutes later, I decided to turn to Google for help and test the powers of AI for an explanation of the statement. In other words, I wanted a breakdown of what it really means. 

AI Overview:

This statement highlights a paradox of moral and practical judgment, suggesting that in a functioning, "sane" society, actions cannot be strictly judged by binary, black-and-white standards. Instead, context, intent, and outcome can diverge, making it possible for a person to be correct in their reasoning or intent, yet produce a wrong outcome, or act wrongly according to convention but be fundamentally right in principle.

Key aspects of this concept include:

~Contextual Morality: An action, such as a well-intentioned policy, can be "morally right" if it is reasonably expected to increase well-being, even if it ultimately fails or causes harm (wrong result).

~Challenging the Majority: A sane person in an insane society (or a rigid, conformist one) may appear insane or wrong, even though their perspective is righteous, aligning with the idea that one can be "wrong" by societal standards yet "right" morally.

~The Nuance of Truth: Opinions and actions often exist in a "gray area," where the information used is flawed (wrong) but the intent is to produce a good outcome (right), or vice-versa.

~Individual Integrity: In a complex society, one must sometimes go against the crowd (appearing wrong) to uphold what is right, rejecting the idea that majority consensus equals morality.

Ultimately, this perspective suggests that a "sane" society understands this complexity and tolerates—or even encourages—this nuance, rather than punishing deviations from a strict moral code.

~End of AI Overview

Tah-Tah!  A sane society has its illicit concept of right and wrong.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2026

Early Childhood Education: Pay attention to details. Decency begins with dot the ‘i’ and cross the ‘t’, T

What is the meaning of detail? According to AI Overview: A detail is a small, specific part, fact, or element of a larger whole, often requiring close attention or precision. 

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Given the multitude of global challenges, trends, conflicts, corruption, and malfeasance, it is essential to emphasize the importance of Early Childhood Education, particularly in mastering the fundamentals of handwriting the alphabet. Developing a strong bond with writing instruments, such as ink pens and lead pencils, is crucial. Through this process, children in their formative years will grasp the significance of precise letter formation, including the dot above the letter 'i' that defines its meaning and purpose. Similarly, the letters 't' in both lowercase and uppercase formats retain their value only with the horizontal line, as its omission would render it an impostor. In an era dominated by technology, it is vital to understand the value of creating from scratch, rather than relying solely on modern tools. 

Familiarizing oneself with the basics before harnessing technology's potential is essential. The internet can be unforgiving, and written content can have lasting consequences. Once something is shared online, it can be difficult to retract. The permanence of digital footprints far surpasses that of paper trails. Ultimately, success stems from mastering fundamental principles and good habits, rather than seeking shortcuts. By focusing on these foundational elements, individuals can ensure a safer, more prosperous world.

Attention to detail is paramount. The phrase 'crossing the t and dotting the i' encapsulates this principle perfectly. Individuals with malicious intentions, such as thieves, often get apprehended due to their singular focus on theft. Initially, they may only take small amounts or items from their employers, but over time, their crimes escalate to larger sums and more valuable goods. In the wholesale sector, this might manifest as petty theft that gradually progresses to grand theft or fraud if left unchecked.  A key factor in their eventual downfall is often a lack of foresight and prudence, neglecting to consider the consequences of their actions or adequately conceal their tracks. This oversight is akin to the careless omission of crucial details, like the dot in the lowercase 'i' or the precise formation of the upper and lowercase 't'; T.

In an era dominated by technology, it is vital to understand the value of creating from scratch, rather than relying solely on modern tools. Familiarizing oneself with the basics before harnessing technology's potential is essential. The internet can be unforgiving, and written content can have lasting consequences. Once something is shared online, it can be difficult to retract. The permanence of digital footprints far surpasses that of paper trails. Ultimately, success stems from mastering fundamental principles and good habits, rather than seeking shortcuts. By focusing on these foundational elements, individuals can ensure a safer, more prosperous world.  

Tah-Tah! Set a good foundation and never lose sight of it.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2026

Words Are Whores. They Are Not Loyal: English Language

According to the Oxford Dictionary, a word is defined as “a single unit of language that means something and can be spoken or written”. - Credit Google search

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Each day the English Language words are at the forefront of every statement, instruction and report. Some days there are arguments and discussions about the misuse of words. Or, it can be about poor spelling, the sinister attitude a word implies when a letter remains silent, and the havoc words wreak when there's a banter. Words also project a mark of intelligence by the user. Whatever the situation is, words are a nightmare, impostors, whores, and a thrill. 

The nature of words is such that they lack loyalty and are prone to multiple interpretations, making them elusive; nonetheless, their integral part in our lives demands that we engage with them daily with the same seriousness and dedication we afford other crucial aspects of existence.

Kindness

The very words that serve to articulate kindness, our love for each other, and illuminate our place within the world, paradoxically hold the power to undermine our self-perception and reduce us to feelings of mediocrity.

 Choose words wisely

Calm nature, beautiful words. However, there are times when aggression fuels delivery. People are free to vent using the words they can manage or the ones they are accustomed to.  Nonetheless for a peaceful life, and to remain sane, one should indeed choose words wisely, be diplomatic, and demonstrate honesty and respect to the people in their life or under their supervision. 

Manipulation of words

Skillful manipulation of words can prove advantageous and contribute to a favorable self-presentation, especially in scenarios where others may be unfamiliar with the context. Yet, attempting to convey superiority through alternative methods doesn't change the fact that one remains comparable to those they criticize, particularly when lacking formal authority or deeper understanding.

Words should be music to the ears

When all is said and done we need words and words need us. Even in situations when “their and there” becomes interchangeable whether by free will, brute force, lack of knowledge, or auto correct.

Tah-tah! Choose your words wisely.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2025

Shall I Greet You With A Curtsy, Bow or Hug?

Choices are big deal and important these days, so let’s see how well I can handle this topic.

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With the help of google, here’s a reminder of the definitions for the words: curtsy, bow, and hug.

1. Curtsy: a woman’s or girl’s formal greeting made by bending the knees with one foot in front of the other.

2. Bow: to bend your head or body forward, especially as a way of showing someone respect.

3. Hug: squeeze (someone) tightly in one's arms, typically to express affection.

Having presented the definitions for curtsy, bow and hug there is no hold up or hemming and hawing in where I am going with this topic and why.  I have been wanting to address the way we greet each for the longest time, and without prejudice. But if we are to live a safe and healthy life in this modern world of poor manners we must set boundaries. We are our own law enforcement officers when it comes to our bodies and health. We have to guard and protect the self from any thing that’s harmful and not of good report. 

Hygiene is a very important part of our daily lives especially when we work in shared spaces or even at home. We must look out for each other when it comes to good health. We can’t go about hugging each other just like that even if hugging is comforting. Some people do carry a strong body odor. It’s the kind of odor that leaves prints and the owner identifiable. For example you can always tell when John Corn or Mary Orange is around. 

And here’s why I do not favor hugs anymore: scents trigger my allergy. And there are some people who wear strong scented cologne and perfumes. Sometimes I wonder if they bathe in them instead of water. Those scents can be overbearing especially if the person who indulges wraps their body around you and gives you one of the tightest hugs. If money was easily transferable as scents I would do the hugs every minute on the hour.

In days gone by, I can recall seeing people greeting each other. And when they do it was a handshake, a bow, or a curtsy. I didn’t see anyone wrapping their bodies around each other like they do now. And some of those hugs can be long. Men back in the day wore hats and caps a lot and whenever they greeted any one they would gently tip their caps or hats and nod.

In my opinion, it would be nice, healthy and helpful if some of the old manners and conduct could be restored for the sake of good health. It’s definitely not necessary to grab and hug each other when greeting.

Tah-tah! Promote good health.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2025

Inhale. Exhale. Breathe.

In the beginning the world stood still

As technology whims fancies 

And top dollars set the stage 

The year 2025 

Knowingly began 

Things, hopes, dreams, plans and

Sentimental expectations 

Turned into threatened abortion

Haul and pull and throw aside

Gee wiz again and again

Parenthood became a nightmare

Severed ties and separation

Shadows of the past a blast

What to do and not to do

Silence evades the humble mind

Iron birds are falling

Some ablaze Some not found

Fear grips the hopeless

A time to test and bless

Crouch and ponder 

Think Jamaican dancehall

Recite blood klaat 2025

Smile watch the sunset

Inhale. Exhale. Breathe.

Rise again

Tah-tah! Remain with positive vibes

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2025

Maidstone and Surrounding Villages...I Remember

Dear My Cool Maidstone:

Greetings! I write to you and all your surrounding villages/districts from somewhere in the United States of America . I would like you to know that there isn’t a day that goes by where I haven’t talked and posted, on social media, about you. Some days I talk about your chain of events, good and not good. And some days it’s all about the antics of childhood and the sayings of the elders that have guided me and many others. I brag that you are district/village nestled in the Don Figueroa Mountains, Manchester, on the island of Jamaica. And that you are documented as one of the first free villages in Jamaica.

I am a Baby Boomer and I am filled with lots of “I remember”. Here’s to the generations who are privileged with the use of modern technology and are tech savvy. And are willing to hear about the past.

I Remember when the people of Maidstone and surrounding villages/districts were united in whatever was going on for the betterment and welfare of all. Be it with church and secular events, fairs, concerts.

I Remember the youth organizations from which we received grooming and proper etiquette:Christian Endeavor Meetings, Boys Brigade, Upward and Onward/U and O, and Juniors (Church organizations). Besides those there were the 4 H Club, Youth Club, Community Council, and cricket club. These organizations and groups allowed us to compete in various competitions, exhibiting our skills at local, parish, and National levels in many skills. Some of the skills were: sewing, crocheting, tatting, farming, baking, and cooking. Cultural events such as square dance, quadrille dance, regular dancing, singing, reciting poetry, sack race, needle and thread race, egg and spoon race, and spelling bee.

I Remember when we went on church and school trips to various places of interest such as the Gleaner Company and the Palisadoes Airport, now known as the Norman Manley Airport. The popular airlines in those times were Pan Am and BOAC. They were the cream of the crop when it came to airlines.

I Remember when people traveled by airlines, they had to be properly dressed. Ladies wore dresses, hats and gloves, and the popular choice in footwear was white shoes. Today I still wonder why white was the most sought after color. And to add to that, people in foreign lands could always single out a Jamaican upon arrival because of the white shoes. Jamaicans always make their mark wherever they go.

I Remember when people sailed to foreign lands by ship because it was much cheaper to go by sea than by air.

I Remember when the Johns Hall District, one of the surrounding districts of Maidstone had a Health Clinic.

I Remember the Pipe Organ at the Nazareth Moravian Church. 

I Remember when the Maidstone community had two libraries: the Church library on the church premises which carried a variety of books. Then there was the school library and later a community library. The people from the immediate and various communities loved to read.

I Remember the Post Office and the loud ringing telephone which was used to send telegrams. And it was always a pleasure to see the red Royal Mail van.

I Remember our local banking system. Most children had a penny bank which was operated by the post office. We had our own bank books and my parents made sure that my siblings and I  deposited money as often as we could. On account of that we became young entrepreneurs. We washed empty aerated glass bottles and then sold them. The money received was deposited at the bank.

I Remember the public Bank at Maidstone, The People’s Cooperative Bank. It was located on a hill a few chains from the village square. And as a result the road in the vicinity of the bank is referred to as Bank Hill. Many years later the bank moved from its location to another area in the village at which point it was named Farmers Bank.

I Remember the church and visitors hosted gospel meetings in Maidstone square.

I Remember on Sundays, my siblings and I were not allowed to play secular songs, which were also referred to as rag songs. 

I Remember the two political parties in Jamaica campaigning in the Maidstone square at different times. It was a time of enjoyment. We danced and sang songs of victory and bantering.

I Remember when thieves came in the still of the night to steal animals and break into shops. Alert villagers always caught and detained them until police arrived.

I Remember when a battalion of law enforcement officers and vehicles came in the still of the morning to raid ganja fields.

I Remember when ganja farmers sold their crops without interference, everyone was well fed in an extra and rewarding manner. Adults and children  wore news shoes, and clothes to church. Church offerings were hefty. At the time I had no clue who the ganja farmers were because ganja planting was illegal. I have to add that my parents had a shop and besides selling the usual foods for daily consumption, they also sold pants length/materials to make men’s pants. They sold shirts, hats, dresses, shoes, needle threads and more. It was bad like a mini haberdashery. So they also benefited from the ganja farmers.

I Remember mothers who had children out of wedlock were not allowed to christen those children inside the church. There was a one room house on the property next to the manse where all illegitimate children were christened. The christening was always held on a Wednesday.

I Remember when the Public Health nurses came to The Nazareth School to administer worm medicine and vaccines. Most of us would run away bawling for our mothers to come get us. Our tears and yelling for mothers were not magic. Because we would be pursued by an adult and taken back to the makeshift clinic, usually a classroom, to have our medicine administered.

I Remember my mother had a manual ice cream bucket. She made the best ice cream. She also sold snowball/shaved ice and added her homemade syrup. My mother also made the best grater cakes, coconut drops, salt fish fritters, beef patties, and fried flour dumplings. 

I Remember the two main events centers/dance halls: Hong Kong was located in the adjoining district, Johns Hall, and Melbos Park in New Hope, another adjoining district of Maidstone. Both places for events were noted for men who sometimes engaged in ferocious fists fights and bottle throwing.

I Remember the many days we took baths in a huge aluminum bath pan because there wasn’t any pipe water.

I Remember the roof of most houses served as a catchment for rainwater to run off into a tank. We would then fetch water from the tank with a drawing pan to cook, clean the house, wash the clothes and bathe.

I Remember farmers reaping their pimento and then selling them to the shopkeepers in Maidstone square. My parents were also among the shopkeepers who bought the pimento.

I Remember my father collecting crocus bags filled with sarsaparilla from local farmers in the various districts. And then hold the bags until the then Jamaica Agricultural Service (JAS) arrived to collect them.

I Remember the coffee pulper, cane mill, and saw mill.

I Remember our family’s gramophone.

I Remember the candy ladies from Huntley, another district on the outskirts of Maidstone. They made the best candy cane. And in those days they made them manually which I understood was a difficult process.

I Remember the hairdressers, dressmakers/seamstresses, tailors , carpenters, shoemakers, and builders who graced the Maidstone and surrounding villages with their skills.

I Remember our main source of light: kerosene lamps, kerosene bottle torch with a piece of tightly rolled old merino, or newspaper as wicks. I remember my father’s Tilly lamp he used in the shop, also fueled by kerosene.

Tah-tah! Now that we have seen the light, please keep telling the events of old.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2024

Bathroom Without Window...A Designer's Trap

Google search definition of bathroom: a room containing a toilet and sink and typically also a bathtub or shower.

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Dear Designer:

What's up with your trap?

Back in time, in some places, a bathroom was built a couple feet from a house. And in some situations it was the last room attached to the rear of the house. The bathroom in those locations had windows for proper ventilation, and a thick heavy secured door for privacy. The bathroom was the ultimate comfort zone where most people read magazines and newspapers while using the toilet. Looking back, it wasn’t hygienic because accidents do happen when it comes to body fluids and waste matter.

Modern times haven't changed that habit. People continue to read magazines and newspapers as they use the toilet. To an interior decorator it’s fabulous, appealing, and classy to place a magazine stand in bathrooms. But has the interior decorator taken into consideration the presence of a paperless society. People are reading from their mobile phones when they sit on toilets to pee or poop. Their cell phones go with them in every nook and cranny. 

Modern times have also afforded us easy access to bathrooms. They are now located next to our bedrooms. There is no need to go outdoors anymore. Neither trek a long passageway to the inside bathroom. Sounds great but the modern accomplishment comes with a shortfall. The bathrooms are without windows. There is no natural airflow from the outdoors. The designers, or architects leave us trapped in all kinds of bathroom stench and noisy ventilation devices. Using aerosol air freshener to eradicate the malodor only makes matters worse. It has the ability to mask itself as perfume, adding scent to clothes and hair. Sometimes we walk by each other no doubt smelling like toilets. We can’t dodge that fact which is a real messy situation. And just when you think the regular bathrooms were bad news, here comes the powder room which is always built in the middle of the house or next to the kitchen. Imagine visitors using the toilet and the flow of air streaming on the outside leading to the kitchen and elsewhere. 

The embarrassment caused by the windowless and inappropriately placed bathrooms in our dwellings often makes me wonder if builders, contractors, architects and designers are penny pinching. Do they really care about our health? They seem not to understand that the air ventilation system has the potential to fail like everything else. These modern bathrooms, I surmise could be subtle fallout shelters and bunkers. As my thoughts come and go I can only further express that sometimes the convenient and modern things are not to our betterment. They are current and long term humbug to our minds and bodies.  

Tah-tah! Change for better, not for worse.

Grace Dunkley-Asphall, Copyright © 2024