Under the PLP government many Bermudians have swung from complete denial straight through to pessimism, in one fell swoop.If you believe the government that all our problems are the outside world’s fault, then, it is logical that there is nothing we ourselves can really do to turn it around, nothing except wait for the global recession to end.This has caused a sense of resignation and even hopelessness to descend over us like a wet blanket. Where is the Bermuda that was the mouse that roared? Where is the Bermuda that proudly punched way above its weight class in a wide spectrum of global endeavours?Where is that national optimism and pride? Where is that confidence that enabled us to be players on a world stage in spite of being just a dot on the map? That confidence can never be regained by merely waiting. What we need is a change in attitude.Thomas Jefferson once said: “Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude!!”Government must lead the way in generating a rebirth of our lost optimism and confidence. One way to do that is to have a credible plan, or should I say, a set of credible plans: a plan to restart economic growth and stimulate job/wealth creation, a plan to curb government spending and pay down the national debt, a plan to curb gang violence and drug trafficking so as to make our people feel safe again, and a plan to reform the public education system.The OBA team has consulted widely throughout the Island and has broadly articulated our plans for these three most important areas: jobs, safety and security, and public education. Our plans are by no means complete, they are a work in progress.However, all share a vision that is not hidebound by the actions of any other or former political organisation. We don’t care where an idea comes from. If it is a good one for Bermuda then we will use it. That’s what you do when you put Bermuda first.After 12 years of PLP government, mounting national debt, growing gang violence, loss of confidence in public education, and healthcare costs that threaten to blow everyone’s budgets, it is time for Bermuda to change its government.The OBA team combines vigorous new faces with experienced members that will change the course of Bermudian history. At this time of national crisis Bermuda cannot afford to have a leader that has to learn on the job. It needs a seasoned veteran to lead this change.My expertise, skills and experience are the right ones for this particular time in our history. We need a credible alternative to this government, come out on Saturday night to Fairmont Southampton at 7.30pm and let’s make that credible alternative together.