Our political leaders seem to be slipping into a new era of confrontation, which detracts from the most important concerns of the people, and if we are not careful, it might be too late to change course in time to avoid that proverbial iceberg, and the consequences of losing focus on what matters the most.Why is it so difficult to learn that it doesn’t matter which side of the boat you are on, if that boat is sinking, everyone on board will be facing the same fate.Bermuda is in an economic crunch situation with increasing concern throughout our communities, that the post election syndrome has not worn off, and opposing politicians are not displaying the co-operative spirit needed, to tackle complex issues in order to get our Island ship back on course.Families are going to bed and waking up wondering about job security, and how they will be able to make ends meet, especially when they are aware that even Government employees have been forced to take a day off without pay, as unions also are confronted with trying to strike a balance of representing the worker, but without the ability to make demands as was the case during the glory years of prosperity.Words have to be chosen carefully by the Government, even when they are addressing the economic problems of the day. Most Bermudians are not experts in the intricate and complex world of high finance, but they are quick to feel brushed over, if an explanation has the tone of a board room where percentages and figures mean more than the every day struggle of the people.The Government needs to improve in its ability to reach the people, who are hurting, without sounding as though they are in possession of this or that percentage about progress, while so many are trying to read between the lines. Most would agree Government has a difficult task, but that does not diminish the responsibility to connect closely with those people, which would be the case prior to a general election.The last thing Bermuda needs during these challenging times is a political skirmish over which group should be allowed in life boats, when the boats should be for everyone on board. No further explanation needed here.Why is it that full cooperation only takes place when a monster storm, and let’s hope that will not be the case this year, is taking aim for our Island home.Let’s not forget that an economic storm can be just as devastating as experienced in Greece, and a few other countries. America with all its wealth, still has more than four million people living in poverty, and that is not a problem that will be solved over night.However, as long as people are left out of the main stream, the door will be open for cultural violence which many Americans feel is a stumbling block for real progress.Sometimes politicians become so embedded in their private world of objectives, they lose sight of acting in the best interest of the people. Elections are held to determine whether the people want a Government to continue, or a change is needed.In a democracy every Government faces that challenge, and it is the only time the voice of the people can be truly heard. Last December, Bermudians brought about change, and they are expecting a change for the better.Political sword fighting at every turn, with emotional outbursts from leaders who should choose words carefully, on any issue, will only serve to keep us divided as a people. Maybe there should be moratorium on speaking to provide more time for thought.If bickering and squabbling on the bridge continues, there will be no one to spot the iceberg just up ahead. Bermuda has much to offer, but time could be running out to chang course.That is a wake up call in itself.