Pondering politics in pristine paradise

Every now and again, maybe twice a year ;) I have a day off work whilst Joy is in day care. Today was such a day. I took my chance and had a lovely time on Cable Beach. Being there provides food for the soul, the heart, the eyes, the skin and more. Pure bliss, like old times. This is the ultimate experience that I have longed for for over ten years, while I was living in Amsterdam and chasing a visa. And now it is here, very near, every day. I am at home and I am a very lucky girl.
Somehow spending time on this bit of earth makes me entirely happy. And being happy enables me to closely look at the world around me and how I deal with it. I found myself a job which turns out to be very political. And I arrived in an important time regarding Broome’s, actually the Kimberleys, future. There is the conflict of interest between the different Indigenous tribes about their land and heritage; they affect Minyirr Park and Broome. There are conflicts between the Traditional owners and residents and amongst residents all together concerning the environment and leisure (f.e. vehicles on or off Cable Beach). There are major conflicts between and amongst Traditional owners, residents, the State and government and some major global organisations. They concern global issues. A major gas source is found in this area and gas is running out in the world. Many parties with an economic interest are after a gas hub on the Dampier peninsula. Other locals and environmentally conscious parties don’t want it as it will destroy this beautiful land. But apparently the economic advantage weighs heavily. So as an employee and as a resident I am surrounded by conflicts and politics. I deal with all parties and it is so easy to feel thorn, fearful or simply disgusted. I am used to have my opinion ready; I can be pretty judgemental you know. And in the midst of these issues, that affect me heavily personally, I suddenly find a way out of it. Besides of being aware of all the emotions, opinions and interests of the people involved there is nothing I can do. I hear, see and understand that all these people are strongly driven by what they believe is right. There are many realities. I do have the impression that personal interest is what drives every human being. Although many arguments are used and therewith many ‘covers’ are in play; if someone wants to achieve a higher life standard, that is what he/she will strive for believing that they act on behalf of the interest of their community. If someone prefers a simple and basic life in a healthy environment, that is what they will strive for on behalf of others. I am aware of all these issues and more. And although I have a personal opinion on the above I found myself free of trying to persuade others of it. Knowing that nobody can convince me either of a different view point, as that will clash with my inner being. So, at the late age of 38 I realise there is no point in judging other peoples opinion or behaviour. Judging cost energy and leads to negativity. It does not resolve a thing. This will all resolve itself, one way or the other. I make sure that I live what suits me and be happy. And trust that this world will remain right, one way or the other. Gosh, what an enlightened feeling. What a great relieve to feel in the heart what I have always known in the brain. Thank you Minyirr (the Indigenous name for this area, including Cable Beach, is birth place), for again cradling my personal growth.

In my backyard

We have had a big shock. Two colleagues out of my team were involved in a serious incident, having all of us in major distress for days about the survival of the girl. She made it, which is a huge relief. Now she needs to recover. And he has a long way to go before he can pick up the pieces of his life. Both their lives will never be the same again. The turns life can take can be shattering, shocking. And you like to think that it does not happen in your backyard, but sometimes it does. Remains to count your blessings with pain in your heart and soul for the ones involved directly.