First World vs. Third Part 2

Here are my thoughts on the email my friend sent me. They are in two sections – I’ll post the rest on Friday.

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Original copy in bold, my comments in normal type.

The following does not take into account the fact that many first world countries stole resources and labour from the poorer countries for centuries and systematically brainwashed their people into believing they are inferior. This mindset has repercussions today. In spite of this people from underdeveloped nations cannot expect to prosper by remaining enslaved to these actions. As unpalatable as it might be we have to forget to the extent that the past doesn’t mortgage our future. And we must learn from the thieving, murderous actions of these oppressors and don’t become like them. The following should be seen within this context.

To reflect and... Act.

The difference between the poor countries and the rich ones is not the age of the country.

This can be shown by countries like India & Egypt that are more than 2000 years old and are poor.

Remember, they were stolen from and oppressed by first world countries.

On the other hand, Canada, Australia & New Zealand, that 150 years ago were inexpressive, today are developed countries and are rich. As a result of stealing and oppression. But we mustn’t steal, murder and oppress in order to become wealthy.

The difference between poor & rich countries does not reside in the available natural resources.

Japan has a limited territory, 80% mountainous, inadequate for agriculture & cattle raising, but it is the second world economy. The country is like an immense floating factory, importing raw material from the whole world and exporting manufactured products.

True, they make the optimum use of what they have and don’t waste time bemoaning what they don’t.

Another example is Switzerland, which does not plant cocoa but has the best chocolate of the world. In its little territory they raise animals and plant the soil during 4 months per year. Not enough, they produce dairy products of the best quality. It is a small country that transmits an image of security, order & labor, which made it the world’s strong safe.

Again, true – we must change out attitudes, the existing atmosphere and social climate is up to us, in spite of our past.

More on Friday.