From Yank to Aussie: My Journey and Reflections on America

As an Australian, I often find myself nostalgic for the country that once seemed like a fraternal haven. Life here in Oz is a far cry from our so-called 'brother' across the ocean, where the political and social landscape seems to have deviated sharply from what I once knew and loved.

Since November 5, America, my once-leaning 45-star band, has seemingly left the rest of the world far behind in every sense of the word, including the moral fabric and safety of its citizens. The pain of witnessing KamalaAndGetty ALT for Kamalas people’s position after the Trump administration is genuine. It's akin to the grief one experiences when they lose a loved one, and the hurt is magnified for those who trusted a leader they believed would uphold their values.

The Downfall of Trust and Morality

It's unfathomable that such a nation, one that led the world in many ways, would elect someone as morally bankrupt as Donald Trump to the highest office in the land. The decision to appoint a pedophilic criminal to such a position is not just shocking but deeply painful, as it feels like a betrayal of trust on a national scale. The loss of faith in democratic institutions and ethical standards is profound, and the implications are dire.

The Pain of Witnessing Internal Corruption

I endlessly grieve for my American friends who faced a reality where their country's stability and values were systematically dismantled. The corrupt leadership, epitomized by Murdoch and Trump, has left a lasting impact on the American soul. The potential for healing and growth, however, lies in the emergence of voices like Mary Trump, who have brought to light the moral and ethical failings of those in power. In fact, a person who has lived for 78 years has never urinated in their pocket, which is perhaps a saying of pride or wisdom passed down.

Aussie Life: A Sanctuary from American Chaos

In contrast to the chaos and violence that has become an everyday occurrence in America, Australia offers a sanctuary of peace and stability. Here, we don’t have to fear for our family's safety, particularly in our schools. While Americans are accustomed to seeing guns every day, thanks to the open-carry laws in 45 of 50 states, gun violence is a significantly less frequent occurrence here. We don’t experience the daily trauma of mass shootings, and schools aren’t lined with armed guards.

The lack of gun violence isn't the only reason Australia is a haven. We also offer equal rights to our citizens, regardless of gender, and ensure reproductive autonomy. Christian beliefs are respected and encouraged, but they are not forced upon people. Our political system is not dominated by a single demographic, and we have made strides in acknowledging the wrongs committed against the indigenous population.

My Love for America and Its Struggles

While I hold a deep love for America, rooted in my loyalty as a Vietnam War ally, I am disturbed by the actions of half of the American populace. Their votes reflect a rejection of democratic values and a retreat into a world of hate and misinformation. It is a stark reminder of how far a nation can slip and what can happen when citizens no longer value the common good.

Personal Reflections and Conclusion

Living in Australia, I am acutely aware of the differences between the two countries. The daily life here is one of peace and order, where gun violence is a distant memory. This isn't to say that Australia is a perfect society, but it is undeniably a contrast to the chaos often portrayed in the media.

My love for America remains, despite the challenges its current leadership has presented. The journey from Yank to Aussie has taught me valuable lessons about the resilience and diversity of human experience. Whether one is an American citizen or an Australian, we all share the common goal of building a better and safer world for our children and grandchildren.