A reflection of life in Beterverwagting
By Denise Maltay
Lecturer
University of Guyana
Guyana Chronicle
May 9, 2004
I RECALL my family and I – my father, Vanimus called Van or Sergeant Maltay; mother Sheila, sisters Cheryl, Desiree, Yonette and brother Marcel, living in the second house in the Beterverwagting Police Compound.
We lived there from 1966 through 1969. We didn't like the idea of relocating with my dad to every police station whenever he was transferred.
So, Beterverwagting was the last place on our minds. After three months we settled, made friends and loved the village.
The best thing that I remembered is my role as a guardian. It was my responsibility to take my three-year old sister, Yonette, to Nursery School. She was so tiny and cute that I took special care of her. It was such a delightful role for me because I took pride and enjoyed doing it. I didn't see it as a task. I felt her soft, smooth, delicate hand whenever I had to hold her, watch for the train and guide her across the train track to her school.
Another important reflection is my three years at St. Peter's Roman Catholic School. The late Mr. Vernon Rodrigues played a very important role in my education. With the help of Mr. Rodrigues, Ms. Cruickshank and Ms. Henry, I was able to obtain the Preliminary Examination Certificate in 1967 and seven subjects at the College of Preceptors Examination in 1969.
My spare time was spent taking care of the many ducks, turkeys and chicken. We had such a large livestock that my father would request a weekly family dinner that consists of a duck or chicken from our poultry pen.
It was my responsibility to take care of them while my two other sisters would do the cooking and laundry.
There were many friends and families who I still remember, Vesta Lowe (Robertson) and her mom, Sister Jean and her family, Wilma Lowe and her family, Owen Dazzel and his mom, and the Yansens and the Ninvalles, in particular Pam..
I remember too the birthdays, weddings and cook-outs that we shared together. Even the times when I attended church with my baby sister, Yonette, is still on my mind.
May God continue to add richest blessings to Beterverwagting!