In Reply to: advice and opinions wanted posted by ella_oz on Friday, 27. January 2006 at 17:25 Bali Time:
Sometimes I overthink and become fancifull but I sincerely believe that these cross cultural relationships are our hope for the future of our region (at least) Not just the romances that work or don't but the friendships formed and the schools sponsored and the charities that quietly do so much, are, I feel, bridges accross the divide of our different cultures.
Take the schools sponsored by Rotary in the Sembung area for an example. In the beginning Australians are to those kids and many of their parents about as fathomable as an alien being emerging from an incandescent space craft. These days they probably still think we are a weird mob and I don't think I would argue with that perception!!! However those kids know that Australians (in my example but any race will do) care about them and have helped and extended the hand of friendship. For our part we have learned to respect more about them and their culture and life. Tolerance on both sides. We have built a bridge that will stand we hope until these kids are old people and we are long gone.
Smaller scale but same principal with the young travellers who go and stay a while forming friendships and sometimes loves which may or may not last the test of time. Whether or not, the memories and the understandings gained last for ever.
We can't do much about the whole world but we can build those bridges and make a small difference and with so many of us doing that it becomes a big difference.
I wish your daughter and you every good fortune in her relationship and journey through life.