Public commuters suffer more

I read with great interest the letters each day, as I think they throw light on being a foreigner here and on aspects of Indonesian life. I laugh at some letters and have sympathy with others. As a foreigner who has been around Indonesia for 15 years and who lives here now by choice, I obviously like the country, and its people in general.

However, life is a struggle for many and we all look for greater fairness and kindness, whether in our own countries, in Bosnia for example, and here too.

Life for many foreigners here is good but not without difficulties, whether it be family, language and other frustrations. June Bennett's attitude (The Jakarta Post, July 27, 1995) seems appropriate and effective in dealing with most of the frustrations here. However, for some people, time and money are important. Nevertheless, more foreigners could try her approach to taxis and other local matters. My only tip on this matter is that people with heart conditions should avoid the bajaj (three- wheeled carriage for passengers), especially if the driver has his cap reversed!

I think, myself, that the important things in life should be emphasized -- family, friends, one's inner dynamics whether religion, spirituality or just feelings and so on.

However, it is good to learn we little people win minor battles, even though it may very occasionally, in the daily struggle -- especially if with the well known, and to be avoided taxi company, I assume referred to in the letter mentioned above. Certainly, I do remember once in 15 years being taken to the right address along the shortest possible route with a correctly working meter by that company.

However, observing, and reading the letters from Indonesian people who write in, they seem to suffer much more in the daily transport struggle than the foreigners in their air conditioned cars (with drivers).

In wishing all Indonesians happy Independence Day I have to remind myself that England was also colonized, at least twice!

ROBERT BROWN

Jakarta