The Bermudian economy is currently in some type of Apollo 13 situation, with the Government of the day struggling to seek solutions to problems that run far deeper than simply trying to create jobs.

With Apollo 13 it took extraordinary efforts, involving the best technical brains working closely together, to bring three astronauts home after a major malfunction deep in space.

Although that incident is now history, lessons from that event can be applied to challenges facing societies around the world today. While great emphasis is placed on financial stability, and that is a positive, it is equally important to preserve proper values that enhance the quality of life for all, if real progress is to be made.

If those brave astronauts had to wait on a political decision for survival, I believe the outcome — well let’s just leave it at that.

Politicians often hesitate to make a move on certain issues unless it favours their chances for getting elected, or staying in office.

Bermuda is no different from other democratic arenas, and that is why it is always the people who must make their voices heard before, and not after major decisions are made.

During the current economic crisis talk of preserving values sometimes results in that deer caught in the headlights look, and this could be why some people choose to remain silent. Remember, in our small society disagreements, politically or otherwise, tend to create attitudes that can hurt relationships even within families.

There are highly sensitive issues facing Bermuda that should be discussed with an open mind throughout our communities, beginning in the home. However, some technology which has its place, has also wiped out the old fashion talk at the meal table, something that occurred more frequently with the older generation.

It was usually during those talks that traditional values such as honesty, decency, and being truthful were touched on.

Changes in lifestyle patterns have altered much of this, and the art of conversation has been replaced by various electronic devices that are used even at the meal table, with little concern whether it is appropriate or not. This may be an irreversible pattern in the new modern lifestyle of communication, but it could also stifle efforts to build meaningful relationships through quiet uninterrupted conversation.

Governments have an enormous responsibility, but they cannot be expected to solve extremely difficult problems without input from people throughout every section of our communities. We still seemed locked in confrontation, rather than cooperation on too many issues, and in the process, could be unaware of deteriorating values needed to create a foundation for future generations.

Bermudians have to decide whether they are willing to throw the baby out with the water when it comes to values for living, or to do what is popular, rather than what is right.

The casino issue, and the controversial marijuana situation, will truly test the direction we choose. While there are strong feelings in all directions on these subjects, if values are brushed aside as outmoded and unimportant, there could be a price later.

Lost values are not easily regained. Our young people are constantly under threat from crumbling values, and poor role model examples. It is a time for serious thought about our direction.

The Government will not have all the answers, neither will the people, but together with calm open discussion, a way might be found to build a better Bermuda, and still preserve values that will not only be a tribute to those who brought us this far, but will help restore pride, that has dwindled in recent years.

There will be no success without values.