A growing number of Bermudians are very unhappy about the state of the country, and are questioning whether the authorities of the day are really in touch with what is happening.This unease is not restricted to any particular section of our community, but crosses political and racial lines as more and more people ask what could or should be done to restore trust and confidence between the populace and our leaders.Making this mood even more profound is the economic plight of the country, which is affecting everyone from the wealthy to those who are struggling daily.While some have been outspoken as to how we arrived at this stage, many on both sides of the political divide have kept their deepest thoughts to themselves, instead hoping that something will rekindle that old Bermuda pride.With an increasing number of families wondering what the next day will bring, as businesses make cuts in staffing to reduce operating costs, a climate of fear and insecurity is created which tends to make a badsituation worse.Bermudians are generally sympathetic to the challenges faced by others, but they should not be faulted for expecting the Government of the day to lead by example, as everyone is called upon to tighten belts to make it through tough economic times.The Bermuda Industrial Union is duty bound to go the extra mile to protect its workers, and its call for Government ministers to take a pay cut to assist the situation is neither unreasonable nor confrontational.Of course such a move would not solve all of our economic problems, but it would at least show that leaders of the country are willing to make the same sacrifices they are asking for from the populace, who face job losses plus having overtime sliced along with reduced services. When families are struggling to make ends meet, they are not very receptive to political statements on plans for the future, and how much is being done. This always has a tone of political campaigning as an election looms in the distance.Ask any cricketer what happens when you take your eye off the ball. The answer is obvious. We as a country have taken our eye off the ball when it comes to seeking a society of peace, safety and economic success that touches every citizen.When we are confronted with a number of pressing social issues including violent crime, we need to avoid being so confrontational whenever criticism is levelled at one group or another. All too often, anger and bitterness replace common sense when that happens. Tough situations call for tough decisions, but care must be taken to avoid creating new problems in the quest for a solution.During difficult times such as those Bermuda is currently experiencing, labour disputes are often a breath away, and no one really wants a major shutdown which would plunge Bermuda into even deeper economic problems. We need to ensure that fairness is the key element in any dispute.This is not a time to be jumping behind any political flag or beating drums for one group or another. Although our democracy provides for free expression, in difficult times, we need cool heads, honesty, and visible commitment from authorities of the day, that major concerns of the people matter more that political image protection.We are all in this ship together, and whether one is in a suite ,or a lower cabin, so to speak, everyone will be affected in a storm.Our success as a society depends on how well we collectively deal with our challenges.