In Reply to: I hate to say this, but PERSONALLY posted by Fiona on Saturday, 29. October 2005 at 17:59 Bali Time:
and the kindness of heart that the majority of the Balinese have then I would perhaps prefer to travel within Australia but to be perfectly honest the people of Bali give me some faith in the world. Australia like so many other Countries has become a selfish and aggressive place with people being totally ego driven and power hungry. To watch a Balinese driver trying ever so hard to get a customer in Kuta with his effervescent smile which is also reflected in his eyes "Transport?" he calls out with a gesture of his hands.... "no thank you", we say as do countless others, hour after hour after hour. Does he become angry? Does his smile diminish? Does he become disrespectful? No, on he continues with that smile on his face. This is not an extra buck so he can have a weekend away or buy a new car or a new outfit, this is his livelihood, this money is needed to put food on his table. Would most Australians continue on as he does? I doubt it, I know I could not do it ... the resilience and patience and compassion shown by the Balinese inspires me and is the main reason that I return to the so appropriately named 'Island of the Gods'.