Black Hill’s sleeping giant
Nestled in Portland lies a silent reminder of Jamaica’s fiery past: the extinct volcano of Black Hill. Though its last eruption happened 12 million years ago, evidence of its power slumbers beneath our feet. The dark basalt rocks scattered across the landscape – a stark contrast to the vibrant flora – are volcanic whispers of a time long gone.
Around 40 to 50 million years ago, in a cosmic symphony orchestrated by the Earth’s fiery core, Jamaica emerged from the depths of the Caribbean Sea, born from the fiery embrace of prehistoric volcanoes. These titans of the deep sculpted our island paradise, their molten breath shaping landscapes and carving out the essence of our beloved homeland.
But the story doesn’t end there. Orange Bay and its surroundings offer a canvas painted with black sand beaches and undulating hills, remnants of the volcanic eruptions that once shook the very foundations of our island home. It’s here, amidst the whispers of the wind and the crash of the waves, that we find ourselves humbled by the grandeur of the universe.
FIERY PAST
Black Hill inspires us to appreciate the vastness of the universe and the ever-evolving tapestry of life. It reminds us that even the most powerful forces can eventually find peace. Take a moment to reflect on the 19 active volcanoes that dot the Caribbean, each a testament to the relentless heartbeat of the Earth’s core. They remind us that life, much like the volcanic process, is a journey of transformation and renewal.
It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is beauty to be found. Just as the mighty hands of nature sculpted our island paradise, so too can we harness our inner strength to overcome obstacles and forge our own path forward.
As we stand in awe of Black Hill’s volcanic legacy, let’s embrace the spirit of resilience that courses through Jamaica’s veins. Let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of our culture, woven from the threads of history and the dreams of tomorrow. And above all, let’s remember that in the vast tapestry of the universe, each of us has a role to play—a story waiting to be told.
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Contributed by Dr Lorenzo Gordon, a diabetologist, internal medicine consultant, biochemist, and a history and heritage enthusiast. Send feedback to inspiring876@gmail.com.