Bermuda, like many other countries today, is faced with challenges that were not even thought of several decades ago. Sadly our political and racial divide is still hindering efforts to collectively take on these challenges that, to a large degree, threaten our stability, as a safe and healthy society.

Political differences will always be a necessary part of the democratic process anywhere, but when the racial factor is injected to the extent that it clouds the real meaning of having a different view, vital issues that need attention are more difficult to resolve, because trust is hard to come by.

The crucial question confronting our leaders today is are we simply living in denial on sensitive issues we would rather not face? We all want to feel proud of Bermuda, but we can no longer bask in the postcard images of the past or rely on our reputation as a quiet, lovely spot in the Atlantic.

Perhaps if we could think of Bermuda as a ship capable of sinking, we might be more willing to apply ourselves in trying to deal with pressing social conditions that could undermine positive moves to regain the high ground of good living values.

It appears we are living in denial when it comes to illegal drugs and the effect it is having on our way of life. Just about every family in Bermuda black and white, has had some experience with illegal drug use, via a friend of the family or even a relative.

Illegal drug use continues to affect many areas of our daily productive machine, to an extent where some employers, especially of small construction firms, have to scramble to keep contract obligations, due to the inability of some workers to answer the call on a daily basis.

This situation is not confined to small operations, but can also be detected in large employment institutions, including the corporate world. Add to this situation the abuse of alcohol and it becomes very clear that we as a people are living in denial. To continue to do so, is going to be costly.

I know a number of people who have openly stated that they no longer attend various sporting events, because the drifting smell of marijuana is disturbing, along with the type of behaviour one has to endure too often today.

It is no secret in Bermuda that a gang type element exists among some misguided young people, who prohibit members of another gang from even entering their so-called territory. Is this really happening in Bermuda? I heard one story about a young man who, after getting a job, had to turn it down because he was assigned to an area that was off limits to him. Hard to believe but it is said to be true. Illegal drug use is also linked to much of our crime today, as addicts seek devious ways to support their habit. Neighbourhoods are far from safe due to this fact. Some homes are not even safe from the people who live there.

We have yet to wage a major war on illegal drugs, although the Police and customs officials on the front line have made some inroads in trying to stem the flow that keeps coming. This is a problem many people would rather not talk about. Hoping it will all fade away one day, is basking in a world of denial.

The greatest weapon against illegal drugs is not to be a participant at any level.

Without customers, the illegal drug machine will crumble. Perhaps better education on this subject, at least for future generations, might result in cutting the demand, which keeps this business thriving. One thing for certain, living in denial is not a solution, and in the end, could be very costly.