Public commuters suffer more

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