Bermuda has faced many challenges throughout our history, and only perseverance and the power of the Bermudian spirit during dark moments has kept us from failure as a people chosen by fate to occupy this beautiful island in the Atlantic.

Despite our size and small population, there are still too many areas of conflict, mainly politically based, with shades of social injustices of the past hindering further progress.

We need to never lose sight of the values that kept Bermuda strong despite circumstances, mostly a result of the post-slavery era, and two world wars that affected millions across the globe.

The struggle for justice is a never-ending dilemma for many countries, and with diversity becoming an unstoppable reality in the world today, Bermuda has an opportunity to show the world how we can embrace changes without losing values we cherish in our daily lives.

It is easy to cite the many problems Bermuda is facing during these tough economic times, but actually finding solutions will require much more than grandstanding by political groups opposed to each other over various issues, without too much willingness to merge the best of our talents even if it means putting the people of this island ahead of political allegiance.

That will not be easy, since there are some who have deep emotional scars over social injustices of the past, and have a difficult time embracing a new day of diversity which is sweeping the globe.

As we approach Heritage Month, we should pause to reflect on why Bermuda is very special, not just for its natural beauty, but for the wonderful people who toiled over the years to help to build what so many take for granted today.

No, things are not perfect by any means, but with the bustling enthusiasm of so many of our young people to be successful, and more doors then ever opening, it would be a shame to have political or ethnic differences stifle further progress.

While it is natural to have differences of opinion in any society, democracy works best when common proven values such as respect and truth, are key elements in working to improve life for all.

No one has all the answers to problems such as better care for the elderly, the illegal drug problem that has taken a heavy toll on family life, violent crime, poor attitudes by some young people, and speeding on our roads that continues despite pleas from road safety officials and police.

All that might seem unsurmountable, but that need not be the case with a more united attitude by all those in leadership positions regardless of political allegiance.

A quick glance at the presidential primaries in America shows how nasty things can become when the only thing that matters is gaining enough political points to gain or retain power.

When anger and emotions explode in the political arena, with charges and countercharges between opponents, the people usually feel like pawns in a chess game, wondering who is really looking out for their interests.

Bermuda’s future is too important to allow conflict to become an obstacle as we attempt to regain our economic footing. Without question the road ahead will be very challenging, but Bermudians have persevered during tough times before. Summer is always an opportunity to make a fresh start in working together towards a better Bermuda. It is an opportunity we can ill afford to miss.