Our Cup Match spirit will prevail, even in these very tough times

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1: Hello Bermuda.

The Parliamentary session has ended and Cup Match is about to begin.

We have two days to rest, relax and enjoy fruits of this God-given island.

It’s a good time for a break, a good time to appreciate what we have —  our families, our friends and the close communities that continue to come together in the face of so many challenges.

I have spoken with thousands of you since becoming Leader of the One Bermuda Alliance, and I understand why so many have doubts about the future.

Hardly a day goes by without more bad news.

If you are someone who has lost a job —  and there are more than 3,000 of you —  every day is a challenge to your self-confidence and your identity. If you are one of the many thousands earning less than before, every day pits you against an economy that never seems to give you a break.

My message to you is:

Don’t give up. Don’t abandon your dreams. Don’t give in to the pressures. You are not alone. People are working hard to make things better. People are working hard to build a Bermuda dedicated to social and economic equity for all. People are working hard to create opportunity for you and your children.

The future is not yet written. We can change what’s happening.

I believe that in my bones. My colleagues believe it and I know you believe it too; because we are Bermudian. We have always prevailed for the better — that’s our history — and we will do it again.

The most inspiring thing I’ve felt since becoming leader of the OBA has been in talking with Bermudians from all over, from St. George’s to Somerset.

I can tell you there is a great spirit out there — ready to be freed up, ready to move on. People are ready for change; ready for a new tomorrow.

That spirit will be alive at Cup Match – on the pitch, in the stands and under the tents.

This holiday, which is anchored to our celebration of Emancipation, reveals our identity and underlines our history. In thousands of ways across these four days – in thousands of greetings and gatherings – we see who we were, who we are and what we can be.

My friends, we are a good people, walking a unique path in this world. Our best days are yet to come.

Enjoy the holiday. Enjoy the company of your fellow Bermudians. Extend a welcoming hand to our visitors. Let’s make Cup Match great for everyone.

Be safe, be good, have fun.

God bless Bermuda.

• Craig Cannonier is Leader of the One Bermuda Alliance.