In recent times, there has been considerable conflict over how various issues are being handled that affect the lives of Bermudians, with no shortage of strong words between those for or against a particular subject. It has not been an easy time for those in the centre; those who yearn for a calm meeting of the minds in a manner that is constructive in solving problems with logic and reasoning.

A sigh of relief could be felt throughout the island a couple of weeks ago, when it seemed things were slipping out of control with work stoppages over a government immigration Bill aimed at providing long-term residents with status rights.

The Bill was withdrawn, ending protests and demonstrations that threatened to derail stability on the island. The entire matter is being re-examined before any further steps are made regarding immigration reform.

While much of the island was preoccupied with heated exchanges between those for and against the immigration reform Bill, there were other Bermudians working hard behind the scenes in preparation for the annual Agriculture Exhibition at the Botanical Gardens, which was not held last year because of government economic restraints.

It was a blow to many people who each year await this event, which highlights farm produce, livestock, floral displays, arts and crafts products, along with entertaining ring performances.

The major attraction is being staged this year largely because of efforts by broadcaster and farmer David Lopes, who was able to gather support from sections of the business community to a point where the Ag Show is on tap for this month.

Apart from Bermudians, tourists also have enjoyed the show over the years.

It must have taken some keen determination and commitment to garnish enough support to proceed with such a show during what most of us know are tough economic times. However, it is even more significant that the old-fashioned Bermudian spirit of co-operation kicked in, which proves that almost anything can be accomplished when people are willing to work together.

Another plus here is that Bermuda is need of a booster shot to reignite that quality of solving a problem through belief that things work only when we pull together as one people. Mr Lopes deserves credit for taking on a task that so many took for granted when the Government fully sponsored the event. Knowing Mr Lopes, whom I once worked with in the broadcasting industry, he would not be looking for credit, but would want the show to be a success.

A quiet lesson out of all of this is that Bermuda still has much to offer and, with upcoming attractions such as Bermuda Day, Cup Match and other attractions such as the America’s Cup, the island should have more than a few positives to celebrate. This is not to suggest that our problems — and we do have them —should be pushed aside or not given the attention they deserve.

The Ag Show, which runs for three days with participation from our schools and other organisations, is very special.

It is to be hoped during this year’s show that we can revive that positive spirit that enabled us to grow despite many challenges throughout the years.

My very earliest memory of this historic event is a little hazy now, but I do recall how a number of military weapons were displayed, apart from the usual farming, livestock and floral attractions. A few years later, I along with other students had artwork displayed at the show. It is good to know that the practice continues to this day.

Bermuda is facing an uphill struggle to rebuild itself economically to tackle issues such as better care for the elderly and generating more jobs through several projects such as a new hotel at the East End. All this will not occur overnight, but if we manage to stay focused on our positives, the island may in the future have even more to celebrate.