SINT MAARTEN (COMMENTARY – By Cdr Bud Slabbaert) - St. Maarten Day, November 11, is approaching—a celebration of identity, history and belonging through speeches, music, cultural activities and public festivities. This year offers the island a special opportunity, beginning with a question: “Who was Saint Martin, after whom the island was named?”
Saint Martin encountered a poor beggar dressed in little more than rags, sitting helplessly by the roadside, with nothing to protect him from the elements with no one to turn to for help. With no money to give, Martin drew his sword, cut his coat in two and sharing half with the unfortunate man. It was only half a coat, but to the beggar it meant much more than shelter: someone had noticed him and cared.
Half a coat carries a whole lesson for Sint Maarten. Saint Martin’s gift to a beggar became one of Christian tradition’s most enduring examples of generosity—a reminder that sharing what we have with those in need is worthwhile.
Why not make November 11 an annual “Day of Sharing” and show that “The Friendly Island” is more than a tourism slogan—it is a way of life? Continue the traditional celebrations while adding something else, a new dimension that St. Maarteners can enjoy together: a day made more special and friendlier by what people share, not just what they celebrate. Bring commercial excitement to a distinctly different purpose. Perhaps the best way to celebrate St. Maarten Day is to reflect on what each of us can share.
Businesses could offer special prices to all residents while supporting those in need through a shopping and sharing day featuring attractive promotions, packages, and complimentary services. Contributions could provide practical help or opportunities otherwise out of reach. Combining commercial appeal with St. Maarten's generosity would make the island friendlier for those who need it most.
Even a modest contribution can greatly improve life for someone struggling to make ends meet. Imagine helping a family, an elderly resident or a child with generous support, groceries or school supplies. One could spare a little to make someone else’s daily life easier. The local media could highlight these acts as practical examples of community spirit.
There is still some time until November 11. Businesses, organizations and individuals still have time to share something that makes a real difference in someone's life. ‘The Friendly Island’ deserves its name through welcoming visitors. It could also earn it for its people's kindness to one another. The most meaningful celebration would offer something to those who have less. This positive island-wide initiative could also generate business, with offers advertised in advance so residents can plan their shopping and activities.
What would Martin, the Saint, see if he arrived on the island today? A beautiful country, a thriving visitor economy, ambitious businesses and people working hard to create opportunities. He would also see residents left behind by this prosperity who need more warmth, security and consideration. He would encourage greater sharing. That is where the story of Saint Martin becomes particularly relevant as it could be an unmistakable difference between celebrating prosperity and sharing its benefits.
If Saint Martin knew today's communication tools, he would use traditional and social media to promote St. Maarten Day as a Day of Sharing—combining festivities with tangible gifts that matter to others. He would ask readers what kind of country they want to be, emphasizing that sharing is more than a moral gesture: it expresses virtue and dignity and helps build a sustainable community.
By Cdr Bud Slabbaert
