No high flying science is required, to understand that an object being tossed about in changing currents, could end up anywhere.

This is OK for a plank of wood, but for a country and its people, drifting is not an option. Almost everywhere you turn today, more and more people are expressing a growing concern, that Bermuda appears to be caught up in a political undercurrent, that has so many twist and turns, it is hampering the ability to tackle crucial problems effectively.

Most people, even if they are reluctant to admit it, are preoccupied with gun violence as never seen before, and escalating crime, obviously spurned by the lucrative underworld of illegal drugs, not to mention an uncertain economic climate, that has many wondering what the next day will bring.

These are troubling times, and also very confusing, especially when the Government of the day concedes quite correctly, that expenditure needs to be curtailed in light of the current economic strain on the economy. However it is puzzling how some $800,000 could be available for a project that need not be on the agenda in the first place.

This, as many of our seniors find themselves floating about in a sea of insecurity with no proper health coverage, at a time when they need it the most.

There is a difference between simply being critical of everything the Government does, which would be wrong, and raising strong questions over issues that appear unsound and improperly thought out.

People have a right to question any Government initiative, they suspect is not transparent, or is poorly executed, leaving the door open for one to perceive that all is not above board. Too often political discord becomes so heated, it overshadows common sense and logic, in dealing with sensitive issues.

Neither the Progressive Labour Government, The Opposition United Bermuda Party, or the Bermuda Alliance Party, still in its infancy stages, will single-handedly hold the key to all of our problems.

At a time when cooperation and accountability is essential, instead we have political battle lines being drawn, leaving many wondering if Political supremacy, is more important than what is right for the people of Bermuda.

A major stumbling block in our political arena is the amount of bitterness just beneath the surface between opposing political groups, making it almost impossible to unite our best talents on some issues that require full cooperation.

Whenever a Government in any democratic jurisdiction, is perceived as shutting out those who voice disapproval, over this or that policy, or a particular programme, a wall of mistrust begins to form, and credibility goes out the window.

A number of people are not happy at all over some recent Government appointments, that could be quite proper and within the rules pertaining to such appointments. So what is the problem*?* Again it lies in perception, and in politics that carries a lot of weight.

This does not mean Government should fear making decisions because they might prove unpopular, on the other hand a Government truly serving the people, should be more than willing to listen to dissenting voices, no matter how critical those voices maybe.

We all know Bermuda has undergone drastic changes in recent years in our social infrastructure, and our economy, and that tourism has been shaky for some time, along with our education system which is still a big question mark.

So there is much serious work to be done, and without an open transparent approach, involving all of those in positions of authority and the people of this country, trying to move the country forward will be more than an uphill battle.

Bermuda is still one of the most beautiful places in the world, and our great gifts should never be allowed to fade, as a result of not pulling together.

It should be realised that no political party alone, can claim to be our saviour in the face of great challenges. Politics can be a nasty game anywhere in the world, but the voices of the people will always have the final say.

Bermuda maybe that island in the sun which we all love, but while it remains stationary in the Atlantic, politically we seem to drifting in an undercurrent of doubt and mistrust.

That need not be the case. We must continue to expect good leadership. A type of leadership we could praise when it is deserved, and is open to criticism in an atmosphere of transparency and accountability aimed at what is best for Bermuda. It is the only way forward.