No need to destroy the house, over a heated debate at the kitchen

table, over the colour of curtains for the living room. Here in our little Bermuda, it would seem we have not learned from history, that without applying reason and common sense to solving problems we open the door to those who may not be committed to building harmony, unless it is under their terms.

America almost destroyed itself, because the confederate south felt they had every right to keep slavery as a part of their existence, and despite being wrong, they were willing to wage war with other Americans to defend that concept. Although they had the right to be wrong, there was no way that wrong would ever be right.

When the dust settled many thousands had paid with their lives, as the south crumbled for a cause that was doomed from the start. The American President at the time, Abe Lincoln, knew without total freedom for all Americans the nation itself would be doomed. He even paid with his life in that struggle, to seek justice and freedom for every citizen.

Today, the world is experiencing hatred in various forms that continue to leave a trail of innocent men, women, and children lying in pools of blood, in conflicts with no end in sight.

The troubled Middle East in recent weeks is an example of what happens when people fail to sort out problems at the negotiation table.

It will perhaps take generations, to eradicate the deep anger between opposing sides, before there is an end to bombs and bullets as a solution.

Some might question what has all this to do with Bermuda? A lot, when one considers what we stand to lose, if we choose to fight each other over disagreements at every turn, whether it be political or otherwise.

Our deeply troubled economy is such, that extreme consideration should be given before taking to the streets to march in protest for this or that cause. The right to protest must be held high in any democracy, and no one objects to that, but most would want to know that whatever the problem it should be dealt with fully at the table, before protests marches.

It is never too late to re-visit, or review sensitive issues, for a better understanding of all the factors involved. Whatever is the right decision, it should always outweigh anger and emotions.

With so much going on in the world today, Bermuda should be one of the best places for vacationing, and that will depend on how well we manage our affairs. Our island should be seen as a place of stability and peace, and with hard work that is what it really can be.

Peace and stability doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to matters of concern with the people.

It simply means we exercise a higher standard of communication, that embraces everyone, irrespective of race, religion, or political persuasion.

Threats of public unrest over the controversial PRC issue is not a good sign for island stability, and hopefully leaders will find a way to a solution that will be justified, and right for all concerned.

Unfortunately in the political arena, it is difficult to read what the real motives are when people are urged to take to the streets.

No matter how long the march for any issue, the problem must eventually be solved at the negotiating table. This a critical time for solutions, not threats. Otherwise, we just might be destroying ourselves, and that should never be an option.