Don’t worry, be happy

Yet another excellent, meaningful, pithy, sarcastic and a humorous editorial appeared yesterday (22/03), titled above in which you state ‘Sri Lanka’s ranking in WHR [UN sponsored Word Happiness Report] list has improved slightly from 129 to 127 out of 146 countries’ and poses the question ‘How could one explain this bizarre situation? The answer is simple Mr. Editor. We are internationally known to be a country with people with all smiles and that attract tourists. If so, why should you quote one of Bobby McFerrin’s golden oldies ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’ when there is an apt local saying ‘Neva Gilunath Ban Chune’ or the popular song Hai Hooi Babi Achchige Bicycle Eka – Kello Kollo Watakaragena Gehuwa Bell eka-.

In reality, this country is in a pathetic state, in all respects, politically. Economically, rule of law and whatever is expected of a respected, dignified nation should possess, although we boast, calling a Lion Race. a glorious culture and a sublime religion – Buddhism. In saying so I am reminded of this dirge and request all Sri Lankans to join me to sing with gusto

Hang down your head Tom Dooley

Hang down your head and Cry

Hang down your head Tom Dooley

Poor boy, you are bound to die.

G. A. D. Sirimal

BORALESGAMUWA