The Shameful Nation?
They say I live on stolen land.
But I came here as a convict and built myself up from nothing.
Seven generations of perseverance in a wild, untamed land.
I'm told I'm committing genocide against the indigenous.
But their population is increasing, along with their standard of living and life expectancy.
They want me to feel guilt.
For some undefined crime committed by someone unknown to me.
But I won't be made to feel guilty when I've done nothing wrong.
There's no blood on my hands and I'm ok with that.
And if you could choose to be born in any country, Australia would be close to the top of the list. Sunshine, beaches, mountains.
A high income nation with an (overly) generous social welfare system. 48% of aboriginals receive welfare. Free money derived from the fruits of others' labour. I don't see any genocide in that.
And now 52% of Australia is Native Title. The majority of the country has been handed over to people free of charge on the basis of their race.
But still there's complaints. They march in the streets and burn my flag. And on Australia Day, if I have a BBQ at the beach I'm labelled a racist.
They want to change the date. And, to be honest, as a laidback Australian I'm not that concerned about which day I celebrate this nation. As long as it's in summer and I get a public holiday.
As long as the whole nation supports it and it's a day of joy. Like it used to be. Every memory I have of Australia day is cold Coronas and the JJJ Hottest 100. The best day of the year. It's nothing more than that.
A day to set aside the nonsense and enjoy what this land has to offer.
And what it's given us.
Support
If you enjoyed this post, please consider buying me a coffee, or becoming a paid subscriber via the link below. I am grateful for your support.