Change, quite a frequent word we hear nowadays. Do we need change? Let’s take a look and see.

As humans we are quick to blame others for whatever challenges we encounter. We are hesitant to take personal responsibility for our own actions. We equally hesitant to take a U-turn when needed.

Change we must.

“We are addicted to foreign oil” said George Bush. In Bermuda we are addicted to International Business.

Over the last 30 years we have shifted an entire economy and mindset to create the Wall Street of the mid Atlantic.

Hamilton’s skyline now resembles lower Manhattan. Everyone clamours for the latest SUV or LV.

Landlords have become xenophobic against Bermudians. And tourism has taken second place. In the wake of it all, we have sacrificed people for profits.

Change we must

With the advent of BB/iPhone/WhatsApp and FB, we are now more connected with persons around the globe.

Yet we are now more disconnected with persons around our kitchen table. Chiropractors stand to make millions with the amount of bent necks and carpal tunnel victims. We have tuned into Facebook yet tuned out of our families.

Change we must.

There was a time that we stood together as communities, making joint decisions and helping each other to build homes and families.

Now we pay contractors to overcharge us, and call the police to tell “those boys down the road” to be quiet.

We used to be able to walk out the road and get a “lift” within five minutes. Now our “neighbours” pass us by in the rain and generously “toot” their horns at us.

Change we must.

In the not too distant future we will be facing another General Election with politicians of all stripes telling us to vote for “Change” or they will “Change” our fate and fortunes.

Change begins within each individual or organisation.

As individuals and as a country we have to take personal and collective responsibility for the direction our lives and our Island goes.

Sitting down and expecting any given political party to deliver the “Midas Touch” is a far-fetched dream.

Over the last two years many Bermudians, of all persuasions, have taken their time to speak with me about their concerns and ideas. I thank them for sharing a moment to engage.

Irrespective of skin tone or political leanings, there lies a common thread that Bermudians are ready and willing to do what needs to be done.

Yet at times, we all as Bermudians simply wait on the “other guys” to get up and do what we think and talk about.

It does not begin with putting an X on a ballot.

It does not end with putting an X on a ballot.

It is up to each and every one of us to create the change that is needed.

Love you all.