Grrr…
You know what I hate? The feeling that when people hear “American” they automatically try to cheat you. It’s so flippin’ frustrating.
I have to say, I’ve rarely had that feeling on this trip, but definitely am feelin’ it today. Seriously, people, Americans don’t get money from a magic money tree. And when we aren’t making American money, we definitely feel the cash crunch when traveling. Yes, I traveled half-way across the world to get here…but in all honesty, from my experience in India, what I made back in the states isn’t that much more than what you, a middle-class person, here would make. You own a house. Perhaps it’s a soul-less shack. But that’s more than me. I couldn’t afford to buy a house in Compton.
But as far as me buying an expensive ticket to get here…the key difference is that I worked my arse off to come to your country. I saved for the trip. I saved up to see more of the world. I saved up to take time to volunteer. I saved up to be able to live OK while I was on the road. I did not save up to pay you for a service that I wouldn’t have paid the same price for back in Manhattan Beach. Most importantly, though, I made the money by working for it, not duping others out of it.
Honestly, not to be over-dramatic or anything, but it’s days like this when I lose my faith in humanity.
*On another note…postings have been sparse because of more travel going on. Will have more on that to come. Lots to say. But just felt like venting right now. Lucky you, huh? Seriously, though…thanks for listening/reading, my dear readers.
January 28th, 2008 at 12:17 am
Aww Jayna, I feel ya. When we were looking for an apartment to rent I found a really nice building and asked the doorman about prices. He said he none rented out for more then $380 dollars a month. I called the owner, she asked where I was from, I told her, and she said, “Great, the apartment is special, it’s just for foreigners, the prices is $800.00 a month.” I said, I’m not an idiot and I hung up.
Or the beggars on the streets get REALLY mad if I don’t give them money and say things like fucking gringa, and the other day I flipped out at some guy and was like, I’m not going to give you my money that I work my ass off for, you dumbshit, get a job! (he was fully able bodied and completely hammered and harassing me).
BUT, on the other hand, i have met some really nice people who have helped me out along the way too. So you have to not lose faith in humanity because there are so many good people out there too…
Anyways, yeah, I can relate. Vent all you want!
January 29th, 2008 at 1:28 am
:( You did work hard for that money, honey. You tell ‘em! Hope you are well and taking good care of yourself!