A day of rest for me, as Rusty takes the train to Woolongong, He went to visit friends Greg (Aussie), Martha (a Carolina girl), and their two kids. Rusty had worked with Greg in North Carolina. Rusty reports that Woolongong is very beautiful and all are doing well in Woop Woop. 
After his return, Rusty and I had dinner with our most generous host Phil, and then decided to have a final pint out. We went to a bar and enjoyed an excellent cabaret torch singer with barely ten people in the bar. One poor drunk fellow hugged the singer after every song, to the point of nausea for this poor woman. She kept remarking, "I know honey, I used to do drugs too." Still, a very fun last night.
A tearful good-bye with Phil, and then off to the airport the next morning. Our flight was delayed seven hours, and so instead of jamming ourselves onto the already overbooked alternative airline, we decided to wait eight hours and head back into the city center to fight the ever increasing World Youth. All in all, the youth were enthusiastic, polite and not easily "annoyed".
The gamble of waiting the eight hours was worth it, as the Qantas flight was under booked and everyone had their own row in which to stretch out and sleep. This was also a good time to reflect on our trip.
Rusty and I talked about the many cultural differences we have experienced during our time. The pub culture was something we both readily embraced. I got the sense, particularly in the small towns, that the pubs were central to much of the social life.
After speaking with many Australians in America and on their home turf, I have come to the conclusion that many Australians are not comfortable discussing ethnicity and racism. The conversation usually starts with me asking about race relations, the Aussie usually begins answering questions then looks embarrassed as I am often very candid. It is not my intention to embarrass anyone but it has become a consistent pattern. I've also noticed many Australians are quick to point out American racism (as seen on TV and on the news) but rarely acknowledge racism is present in Australian society. I'm thinking that it has to do with the overwhelming egalitarian nature of the Australian culture. Anytime discussing race with my Aussie mates, invariably the point is made that everyone is equal and no one feels above anyone else. D.H. Lawrence observed that "...where as some people felt 'better off' than others, no one felt better than others." This certainly is an admirable attitude to foster. The idea is that because everyone is the same, everyone can make good. This presupposes that everyone has the same opportunities to succeed. The ol' pull yourself up by your boot straps ideas. This argument is based on the premise that we start from a level playing field. I'm not a huge fan of this argument as it is never a level playing field, but I can see that it is part of the Australian thought process, just as it is for much of American society. This is not, I repeat not, an indictment of Australian society. How could I heap such criticism on a people and a place I love with such a fervor? (Yes, I did say Love, and those familiar with my true German nature know that my monthly quota of love is very restricted). I'm not singling anyone conversation out, as this is a result of many conversations and observations. Who knows, I may be way off base but hope it is a conversation starter on Aussie vs. American Racism. Too edgy for a travel blog? You know I gotta throw in social justice issues where I can!
Other thoughts, Australia has some of the nicest most down to Earth people I have ever met. My thanks go to so many people for their help. My thanks in particular to Drill Sergeant Di, great job on arranging everything. The trip was a trip of a lifetime and worth every minute. We owe this fact in great part to Di Drew and the many fabulous friends and family to whom she has introduced us. Every wonderful person we met is welcome to come to our city by the bay and enjoy our hospitality. 
No comments:
Post a Comment