Bermuda can move away from a wobbly and highly divisive political atmosphere only if those emotional barriers, many a result of our social history, are torn down to open a path for people of all races, and political and religious persuasions to create community life that is inclusive, peaceful and respectful.

This is where good, strong leadership is called for, with the ability to have a vision that connects with people in a way that leaves no doubt that the concern of every single citizen is vitally important. This is no easy task, since there will always be those who resent being challenged. They are the ones with the “my way or no way” attitude.

It happens in just about every democratic society, and even the best of leaders often find themselves caught in bitter, verbal crossfire of opposing views, with neither side willing to give an inch. This is where the rubber hits the pavement in testing any leader who is confronted with the task of convincing two sides of a dispute that problem solving will occur only with cool, calm thinking, instead of digging a deeper trench of divisiveness.

With politics around the world, when there is failure to unite for better co-operation and understanding, the people usually are the ones likely to fall into that divisive trench of discord, mistrust and a lack of confidence. Getting out — well that’s another story.

What most Bermudians want, and this crosses all lines of social and political differences, is leadership that is firm but deeply respectful when dealing with highly emotional issues. Should a leader resort to the use of demeaning terms in describing opponents, there is the danger of sparking negative reaction from those prone to anger and bitterness. A good leader must be aware that words carry power for good and bad, and a slip of the tongue could have dire consequences.

In the American presidential race, not only have damaging words been tossed about but angry supporters have resorted to acts of violence, causing new concerns about hostile language used in the heat of campaigning. The bottom line is that any leader, or one aspiring to high office, should be fully aware that the use of negative or insulting words under any circumstances is never good in trying to build community harmony.

What leaders must keep in mind is that having that role is not mandated by the universe, and that falling short in expected standards is nothing to be taken lightly. On the other hand, leaders should be aware that they being human will make mistakes. Sadly, in the political arena, few are willing openly to admit an error in judgment unless evidence is just so overwhelming that they are left with no choice.

Bermuda has in recent times experienced embarrassing clashes in Parliament when some members were so out of line, they were asked by the Speaker to leave the room. No need for details. The important factor is that leadership carries a responsibility to uphold principles that all of us should be mindful of in our daily activities. Every member of our Parliament has been elected to serve the people of this island, whether they represent the One Bermuda Alliance government or the Progressive Labour Party. Although they differ on various policies, and on how to achieve certain objectives, at no time should politicians allow those differences to become obstacles to providing the people with the service they expect and deserve.

Most Bermudians during these tough economic times are not in any mood for a political civil war over which party should run the country. Yes, there are those who have party allegiance as their ultimate goal, and who frown on attempts for better political co-operation. But we have reached a stage in our history where on this small island, we must simply tackle a number of serious problems collectively or watch potential success fade in the distance.

Union leaders know only too well that a working Bermuda is the best way forward, and work stoppages and demonstrations to highlight issues are a part of the democratic process. But solving problems at the negotiating table would be far more productive for both sides of a dispute. The Government has the responsibility to try to hold it all together, but improved co-operation at all times in a give-and-take spirit will move us all to the success the island needs.

There are no magic wands, but with a sincere effort to work together, the tough journey ahead just may not be that tough.

Our children deserve more than having to see history repeat itself. We have a long, hot summer ahead; let’s hope the raised temperatures will be mostly weather-related.