This is with reference to the article ‘Gifts from the Gulf’ (KT, July 2nd) . I appreciate the writer’s feelings and effort in bringing out the misconception of relatives back home that people in the gulf are loaded!There is struggle and slog everywhere, especially in this part of the world of brimming heat. The scenario is sliding through rough weather.
In-keeping with tradition, we carry gifts with love and in the hope that they will be accepted with a smile. But, what we receive is ‘That’s it? You didn’t get anything else?’
Our forefathers may have been victims of illiteracy, superstitions and lack of technological development.
But they had deep belief in relationship and respect for elders and culture! With the progress of mankind, the genuineness in relationship has been encroached upon.
I agree with the writer when she says that we ‘Gulfers’ are fully aware of the fact that most of our relatives are floating in a materialistic ocean and do not appreciate what we give them.
But I really do not understand the rationale behind continuing this non-appreciated exercise. Is it because of tradition, fear or true love?
I believe if we become firm in our policies and imply a ‘tit-for-tat’ policy and become practical and pragmatic in our approach these so-called relatives who take advantage of us will stop using us as their ATM machines.
