Although much of the world remains in the grip of a pandemic that has crippled economies and altered lifestyles for millions, an even greater threat looms when democracy is threatened by the politically powerful in some countries in order to secure support from fanatical supporters, including extremist groups, with an agenda not in keeping with truth or decency.

However, that’s another story.

No country, not even our lovely Bermuda, has escaped having to deal with political divisiveness. Yes, with people locked into supporting a particular political party without question, stemming from a history of racism with roots in slavery.

This has created challenges for our political leaders of the day, despite significant progress in race relations over the years.

Progress is no reason to become complacent or shy away from the pressing issues that must be sorted out with a more cohesive approach, instead of constant verbal sword fighting over who has the best plan.

Just as in other parts of the world, our government has had to wrestle with complexities arising from a pandemic that has claimed millions of lives including victims on our soil. Medical science provided a degree of protection with vaccines and much of the world swung into action in trying to get as many people as possible vaccinated to at least stem the flow.

Many nations were forced to take drastic measures to halt the spread, which included shutting activities with large crowds — affecting many business establishments, and restaurants. Obviously not everyone was pleased.

Despite proof from medical science globally that vaccinations held the key in bringing the situation under a degree of control, thousands rejected having to wear face masks, or maintain proper distancing, and many refused to be vaccinated.

Even here in Bermuda, many frown on vaccinations even though by doing so they place relatives and friends at risk. With a new Delta variant entering the picture, we are far from out of the woods. That variant is causing new problems in the United States with a number of young, unvaccinated people falling seriously ill.

These are tough times, but things will get brighter as massive vaccinations continue globally in an all-out effort to halt the spread. Those who refuse to be vaccinated, whether they like it or not, are creating a health hazard for people around them, including family members. This is not a time to play games with a virus that the medical world is still struggling to cope with.

Apart from the pandemic, Bermuda, no different from other countries, has challenges that include Illegal drug use, gang activity that often involves gun crime, speeding on our narrow roads, and an education system In an age when disinformation via electronic social media puts a greater strain on those in the teaching profession.

It also puts a greater strain on parenting at a time when families are struggling to teach and keep good values alive.

The magnificent accomplishment of triathlon ace Flora Duffy was indeed a much needed shot in the arm when she proved that nothing is impossible when you give it your very best shot. She also emphasised that it was a team effort and that many in the shadows were key players in helping to achieve Bermuda’s first Olympic gold medal.

There were many Bermudians in our history who toiled day and night to bring about change for the good, and they did so without anticipating any type of reward. So many names gone with the wind, but the reward they never saw was a Bermuda that still holds promise of moving to the higher ground of justice and peace for all.

There is still much work to be done. No matter political or religious affiliation, when we focus on truth with respect and decency, the path will grow brighter with each passing day.

There will be storms ahead politically, and those stemming from nature perhaps with more intensity as a result of climate change, believed to have contributed to the devastating floods that damaged many parts of Europe with loss of life.

The world must do better in tackling global emission issues that damage our protective shield from powerful rays from the sun. Without facing up to that truth, let us hope that it is not too late. After all, there is no substitute for truth.